What is the gaseous envelope surrounding the earth called?

The gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth is known as the atmosphere. This layer of gases plays a crucial role in supporting life by providing essential elements such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, regulating temperature, and protecting the planet from solar and cosmic radiation. The atmosphere consists of several layers, each with distinct characteristics, but the term "atmosphere" encompasses all these layers collectively.

The other terms refer to specific layers within the atmosphere and thus do not represent the entire gaseous envelope. The stratosphere is known for containing the ozone layer, while the troposphere is where weather occurs and is closest to Earth's surface. The exosphere is the outermost layer and transitions into space, representing only a small part of the atmosphere as a whole. Therefore, understanding these distinctions helps clarify why "atmosphere" is the accurate term for the entire gaseous layer enveloping the Earth.