Explain Structure of the atmosphere.
Share
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.
Explain Structure of the atmosphere.
The Earth's atmosphere is divided into several layers, each with distinct characteristics and functions. Starting from the surface and moving upward, these layers are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.
Troposphere: This layer extends from the Earth's surface up to approximately 8-15 kilometers (5-9 miles) high, depending on latitude and season. It contains about 75% of the atmosphere's mass and is where weather occurs. Temperature generally decreases with altitude in the troposphere.
Stratosphere: Extending from the top of the troposphere to about 50 kilometers (31 miles) above the Earth's surface, the stratosphere is where the ozone layer is located. This layer absorbs and scatters ultraviolet radiation from the sun, making it crucial for protecting life on Earth. Unlike the troposphere, the temperature increases with altitude in the stratosphere due to the absorption of UV radiation by ozone.
Mesosphere: Above the stratosphere lies the mesosphere, which extends from about 50 to 85 kilometers (31 to 53 miles) above the Earth's surface. In this layer, the temperature decreases with altitude, reaching extremely low temperatures. It is also the layer where most meteoroids burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere.
Thermosphere: Extending from the mesopause (the top of the mesosphere) to about 600 kilometers (373 miles) above the Earth's surface, the thermosphere is characterized by high temperatures due to the absorption of solar radiation. Despite the high temperatures, the air density in this layer is extremely low.
Exosphere: The outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere, the exosphere extends from the top of the thermosphere to the edge of space. It gradually transitions into the vacuum of space, with the density of molecules becoming increasingly sparse. Satellites orbit within this layer.
Each layer of the atmosphere plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate, protecting life from harmful radiation, and facilitating various atmospheric phenomena. Understanding the structure and dynamics of the atmosphere is essential for comprehending weather patterns, climate change, and the interactions between the Earth and its surrounding environment.