The Atmosphere

Definition The thin layer of air that forms a protective covering around the planet. The atmosphere is made up of Gases 78% Nitrogen 21% Oxygen 0.93% Argon 0.01% Other gases

Layers

Troposphere This is where all plants and animals live and breathe Where weather takes place Air is mixed and contains 99% water vapor Temperature decreases with altitude

Ozone Layer About 19 km to 48 km above your head. Pale blue gas with a strong odor. 90% of all ozone is found in the stratosphere 10% is found in the troposphere

Ozone Layer Ozone is extremely important because it is the only gas that absorbs ultraviolet radiation from the Sun and protects the surface of the Earth and people from the damaging effects of UV rays. Ultraviolent Radiation- is one of the many types of energy that come to Earth from the Sun. CFC’s (Chlorofluorocarbons)- Group of chemical compounds used in refrigerators, air conditioners, aerosol sprays etc. that destroy the ozone layer.

Stratosphere Layer directly above the troposphere. Extends about 10 km above Earth’s surface to about 50 km. Ozone in this layer stops many of the sun's harmful rays from reaching the earth People can not breathe in this layer. Temperature increases with altitude.

Mesosphere On top of the stratosphere Temperature decreases with altitude 50 km to 85 km in altitude This is where we see "falling stars" – meteors burning up as they fall to Earth

Thermosphere Layer of the atmosphere which is first exposed to the Sun's radiation and so is first heated by the Sun. Has high temperatures 85-500 km (thickest layer) The air is very thin The temperature dependent on solar activity.

Ionosphere An extension or a part of the thermosphere. So technically, the ionosphere is not another atmospheric layer. Free electrons and ions tend to recombine Allows radio waves to travel across the country

Exosphere Highest layer of the atmosphere. The air is very thin here (Within the Thermosphere) Atoms and molecules escape into space Satellites orbit here