1. Chapter 6 The Atmosphere Preview Section 1 Characteristics of the AtmosphereCharacteristics of the Atmosphere

2. Chapter 6 Layers of the Atmosphere There are four main layers of the atmosphere. The divisions (transitions) between the layers are based on how each layer’s temperature changes with height. These divisions are known as pauses. Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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5. Layers of the Atmosphere The Troposphere: The Layer in Which We Live The lowest layer of the atmosphere, lies next to the Earth’s surface Weather occurs in this layer Densest layer of the atmosphere Both air temperature and air pressure decrease as you move higher in this layer (Tropopause – transition) Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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7. The Stratosphere: Home of the Ozone Layer The atmospheric layer above the troposphere The gases in this layer do not mix, they are layered Temperature increase due to ozone which absorbs energy from the sun (ultraviolet energy) Pressure decreases Stratopause - transition Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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9. The Mesosphere: The Middle Layer the middle layer of the atmosphere. It is the coldest layer. Temperature decreases Pressure decreases Mesopause - transition Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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11. The Thermosphere: The Edge of the Atmosphere The uppermost atmospheric layer temperature increases pressure decreases has the highest temperatures Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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13. The Ionosphere: Home of the Auroras In the upper mesosphere and the lower thermosphere nitrogen and oxygen atoms absorb harmful solar energy. Auroras occur Reflects radio waves Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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15. The Exosphere: Outermost layer The uppermost atmospheric layer found in the upper thermosphere. No outer limit due to merging with space. Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

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17. The Magnetosphere: Earth’s magnetic field Earth’s magnetic field Cause of the Aurora Borealis Solar winds interact with magnetic field of Earth Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere

18. Chapter 6 Section 1 Characteristics of the Atmosphere