15 Questions
What is the primary function of the troposphere?
It provides the air necessary for breathing and photosynthesis
In what order are the layers of the atmosphere, from lowest to highest?
Troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere
What is the highest layer of the Earth's atmosphere?
Exosphere
What is the approximate height of the troposphere at the Equator?
7.5 miles (12 kilometers)
What is the purpose of the stratosphere?
It is not mentioned in the text
What is the composition of the air in the troposphere?
A mix of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide
What is the shape of the troposphere at the Earth's poles?
It is lower at the poles than at the Equator
What happens to the air temperature as you go higher in elevation in the troposphere?
It decreases
What is the main characteristic of the stratosphere in terms of temperature?
The temperature rises with higher elevation
What is the importance of the ozone layer in the stratosphere?
It protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation
What is the characteristic of the mesosphere in terms of temperature?
It is the coldest layer of the atmosphere
What is the importance of the ionosphere in terms of communication?
It reflects and modifies radio waves
What is the main feature of the thermosphere?
It is very thin and gives way to the far depths of space
What is the characteristic of the clouds in the mesosphere?
They are scarce and exist due to nearly scarce water vapor
Why is the ozone layer affected by human activity?
Due to increased carbons created from Earth
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.
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.
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