Composition and Properties of Earth's Atmosphere

Front

What is the composition of Earth's atmosphere?

Back

Earth's atmosphere is composed of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and trace amounts of other gases such as argon, carbon dioxide, and water vapor.

Front

What happens to air pressure as altitude increases?

Back

Air pressure decreases as altitude increases.

Front

What is the troposphere?

Back

The troposphere is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere where most weather phenomena occur.

Front

What causes winds on Earth?

Back

Winds are caused by differences in air pressure.

Front

What is the difference between local winds and global winds?

Back

Local winds are caused by temperature differences in small areas, while global winds are caused by large-scale atmospheric circulation.

Front

How does energy from the Sun reach Earth?

Back

Energy from the Sun travels to Earth through radiation.

Front

What is the role of the ozone layer in the atmosphere?

Back

The ozone layer protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun.

Front

What is atmospheric pressure?

Back

Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air above a given point.

Front

What is the significance of the stratosphere?

Back

The stratosphere contains the ozone layer and is where commercial jet aircraft typically fly.

Front

How does temperature change with altitude in the troposphere?

Back

In the troposphere, temperature generally decreases with increasing altitude.