What are the composition and structure of the atmosphere, including its layers and the importance of the ozone layer?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a detailed understanding of the composition and structure of the atmosphere, including the different layers of the atmosphere and their specific characteristics and functions.
Answer
The atmosphere is made of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, and trace gases. It has five layers and the ozone layer in the stratosphere absorbs UV radiation.
Earth's atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), argon (0.9%), and trace gases. It has five main layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Answer for screen readers
Earth's atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), argon (0.9%), and trace gases. It has five main layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
More Information
The ozone layer, located in the stratosphere, is crucial for life because it absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting living organisms from DNA damage and other harmful effects.
Tips
Confusing the different layers of the atmosphere can lead to misunderstandings; remember the specific order and characteristics of each layer.
Sources
- Layers of Earth's Atmosphere - UCAR Center for Science Education - scied.ucar.edu
- Basic Ozone Layer Science | US EPA - epa.gov
- Atmosphere - National Geographic Education - education.nationalgeographic.org
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