Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the Earth's atmosphere during the night?
Which gas makes up the largest percentage of the Earth's atmosphere?
How does the atmosphere support life on Earth?
What percentage of the Earth's atmosphere is composed of argon?
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What role does the atmosphere play in climate regulation?
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The amount of gases in the atmosphere increases as the altitude increases.
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What is the temperature range of the Thermosphere?
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What is the altitude range of the Exosphere?
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The temperature in the Exosphere is close to ______.
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Study Notes
Origin of the Word "Atmosphere"
- Derived from Greek: "atmos" meaning "gas" and "sphaira" meaning "globe" or "ball".
Composition of Earth's Atmosphere
- Consists of 78% Nitrogen, which is inert and essential for life.
- Contains 21% Oxygen, critical for animal respiration.
- Comprises 0.9% Argon, a noble gas with no significant biological role.
- Includes 0.1% of other trace gases and vapor, vital for various atmospheric processes.
Functions of the Atmosphere
- Acts as a thermal blanket, retaining heat during the night.
- Serves as a filter, protecting Earth from harmful solar radiation during the day.
- Supports life by providing essential gases: oxygen for animals and carbon dioxide for plants.
- Regulates global climate, influencing weather patterns and temperature regulation.
Atmosphere Overview
- The atmosphere is held in place by Earth's gravity, impacting gas distribution with altitude.
- As altitude increases, the density and amount of gases in the atmosphere decrease.
Layers of the Atmosphere
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Exosphere
- Extends from 310 to 620 miles above the Earth's surface.
- Temperature approaches absolute zero, indicating extremely low thermal energy.
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Thermosphere
- Ranges from 86 to 372 miles above Earth.
- Experiences high temperatures ranging from 930°F to 3600°F, marking the threshold of outer space.
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Description
This quiz covers the composition and functions of the Earth's atmosphere. Learn about the gases that make it up and its vital role in supporting life and regulating climate. Explore how the atmosphere acts as both a protective shield and a climate regulator.
