Layers of the Atmosphere

Front

What is the composition of Earth's atmosphere?

Back

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

Front

What is the Karman line?

Back

The Karman line is an internationally recognized boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space, located at an altitude of 100 kilometers (62 miles) above sea level.

Front

What is the function of the ozone layer?

Back

The ozone layer absorbs the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting living organisms on Earth.

Front

Which layer of the atmosphere do humans live in?

Back

Humans live in the troposphere, which is the lowest layer of the atmosphere where weather occurs.

Front

What is the temperature trend in the troposphere?

Back

In the troposphere, temperature decreases with altitude.

Front

What is the stratosphere known for?

Back

The stratosphere is known for containing the ozone layer and has a temperature that increases with altitude due to the absorption of UV radiation.

Front

What is the mesosphere?

Back

The mesosphere is the layer of the atmosphere above the stratosphere, where temperatures decrease with altitude and most meteors burn up upon entering this layer.

Front

What is the thermosphere?

Back

The thermosphere is a layer of the atmosphere characterized by very high temperatures and is where the auroras occur.

Front

What is the exosphere?

Back

The exosphere is the outermost layer of the atmosphere, where atmospheric particles are so sparse that they can travel hundreds of kilometers without colliding with one another.

Front

What is the role of nitrogen in the atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere, making up about 78%, and it plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle, which is essential for life.