Atmosphere

Our _________ is the layer of gases that surrounds our planet.

• ocean

• weather

• atmosphere

• ozone

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'atmosphere' because it refers to the layer of gases that envelops the Earth, essential for life. The other options do not describe this layer.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Where is the ozone layer, which absorbs UV radiation, located in our atmosphere?

• stratosphere

• thermosphere

• mesosphere

• troposphere

Answer explanation

The ozone layer, which absorbs harmful UV radiation, is located in the stratosphere. This layer is situated above the troposphere and below the mesosphere, making it the correct answer.

Where would there be more pressure?

• on top of a roof of a tall building

• sitting in this classroom

• on top of a mountian

• sitting in the top row of a stadium

Answer explanation

Pressure increases with depth in a fluid. In a classroom, the air pressure is higher than on a roof or mountain due to the weight of the air above. Thus, sitting in this classroom experiences more pressure.

In which layer of the atmosphere is the most water vapor found?

• thermosphere

• mesosphere

• troposphere

• stratosphere

Answer explanation

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere and contains most of the Earth's water vapor, as it is where weather occurs and where clouds form. The other layers have significantly less water vapor.

Which layer of the atmosphere would jets fly in to avoid a thunderstorm?

• troposphere

• thermosphere

• mesosphere

• stratosphere

Answer explanation

Jets fly in the stratosphere to avoid thunderstorms, as this layer is above the turbulent weather found in the troposphere where storms occur. The stratosphere provides a more stable flying environment.

As you ascend (go up) in the troposphere what happens to the temperature?

• It increases steadily

• It decreases steadily

Answer explanation

As you ascend in the troposphere, the temperature decreases steadily due to the decreasing air pressure and density, which leads to lower temperatures at higher altitudes.

As altitude increases, air pressure....

• Increases

• Decreases

• Stays the same

• Goes up and down

Answer explanation

As altitude increases, the amount of air above decreases, leading to lower air pressure. Therefore, air pressure decreases with increasing altitude.

Why is the ozone layer vital to life on Earth?

• Planes fly in the ozone layer

• It is made up of oxygen (O₂)

• It shields the Earth from ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun

• It causes clouds to be created

Answer explanation

The ozone layer is vital because it shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, protecting living organisms from damage that can lead to skin cancer and other health issues.

In which layer of the atmosphere do meteors burn up?

• Troposphere

• Mesosphere

• Thermosphere

• Exosphere

Answer explanation

Meteors burn up in the mesosphere, which is located between the stratosphere and the thermosphere. This layer is where the friction from the atmosphere causes meteors to heat up and disintegrate.

This layer is the hottest layer of the atmosphere?

• Troposphere

• Stratosphere

• Mesosphere

• Thermosphere

Answer explanation

The thermosphere is the hottest layer of the atmosphere, with temperatures reaching up to 2,500°C (4,500°F) or more due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation. In contrast, the troposphere, stratosphere, and mesosphere are cooler.