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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the troposphere?
In what order are the layers of the atmosphere, from lowest to highest?
What is the highest layer of the Earth's atmosphere?
What is the approximate height of the troposphere at the Equator?
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What is the purpose of the stratosphere?
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What is the composition of the air in the troposphere?
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What is the shape of the troposphere at the Earth's poles?
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What happens to the air temperature as you go higher in elevation in the troposphere?
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What is the main characteristic of the stratosphere in terms of temperature?
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What is the importance of the ozone layer in the stratosphere?
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What is the characteristic of the mesosphere in terms of temperature?
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What is the importance of the ionosphere in terms of communication?
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What is the main feature of the thermosphere?
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What is the characteristic of the clouds in the mesosphere?
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Why is the ozone layer affected by human activity?
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Study Notes
Structure of the Atmosphere
- The Earth's atmosphere is divided into four main layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere.
- The exosphere is the uppermost layer, gradually fading away into space.
Troposphere
- The troposphere is the layer closest to the Earth's surface, extending up to 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) in height.
- Its height is lower at the poles and highest at the Equator.
- The troposphere holds the air necessary for breathing and photosynthesis.
- It contains a mix of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.
- The air temperature decreases with elevation due to the transfer of energy from the Earth's surface.
- Most of the Earth's weather is generated within the troposphere.
- The clouds around the Earth are also within the troposphere, except for some thunderous cumulonimbus clouds.
Stratosphere
- The stratosphere is the layer above the troposphere, extending up to 31 miles (50 kilometers) above the Earth's surface.
- It's a narrow layer that can be passed through in about 5 seconds.
- The stratosphere has virtually no clouds and weather.
- The temperature rises with elevation due to UV radiation.
- It's home to the Earth's ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful UV radiation.
- The ozone layer has a balance between formulation and natural depletion, but human activity can deplete it.
Mesosphere
- The mesosphere is the last noticeable layer of the atmosphere, existing between 31 and 50 miles (50 to 80 kilometers) above the Earth's surface.
- It's the coldest layer, with temperatures averaging around -120°F (-84°C).
- The highest clouds above the Earth's surface form in this layer due to scarce water vapor.
- The mesosphere contains the ionosphere, which is home to Earth-orbiting satellites.
- The ionosphere reflects and modifies radio waves, allowing for communication with satellites.
Thermosphere
- The thermosphere is the last layer of the atmosphere, beginning about 62 miles above the Earth.
- It's very thin and gives way to the far depths of space.
- The thermosphere is home to the International Space Station and other orbiting satellites, including part of the ionosphere.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the Earth's atmosphere, including its four main layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere. Learn about their characteristics and vertical structure.
