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Definitions

Explore the vertical structure of the atmosphere, from troposphere to thermosphere, and learn about key layers like the ozone and ionosphere. Delve into the composition of air, understanding the significance and variations of gases present.

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Definitions

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  1. Atmosphere:The thin envelope of gases surrounding the earth Highly compressible Density decreases rapidly with height Air:A mechanical mixture of gases and aerosols Definitions

  2. Vertical Structure of Atmosphere • Troposphere (surface to 8-20 km) Upper boundary varies from about 8 km (poles in winter) to about 20 km (tropics) Weather and climate layer Most of atmosphere’s mass; all of its water

  3. Vertical Structure of Atmosphere • Troposphere (surface to about 8-20 km) Upper boundary varies from about 8 km (poles in winter) to about 20 km (tropics) Weather and climate layer Most of atmosphere’s mass; all of its water • Stratosphere (8-20 km up to about 50 km) Ozone (O3) Layer Temperature inversion

  4. Vertical Structure (ctd.) • Mesosphere (50-80 km) • Temperature decreases with height. Why? • Thermosphere (80-? km) • Temperature inversion. Why?

  5. Vertical Structure (ctd.) • Homospherevs. Heterosphere

  6. Vertical Structure (ctd.) • Homospherevs. Heterosphere • Transition zones between layers • Tropopause • Stratopause • Mesopause

  7. Defining Layers by Function – the Ozonosphere • Roughly corresponds to the stratosphere • How does the ozone layer work? • Why is there a “hole” in the ozone layer? • Why no “hole” where the pollution is produced?

  8. Defining Layers by Function – the Ionosphere • Upper mesosphere + thermosphere • Produces the aurora borealis and aurora australis • D Layer – absorbs AM radio waves; disappears at night • E Layer – weakens at night • F Layer – reflects AM radio waves

  9. Composition of the Air • Uniform gases Nitrogen (N2) 78%, (O2) 21%, Argon (Ar) 1%, trace gases (Neon, Helium, Methane (CH4), etc.) • Variable gases Water Vapor (H2Ov), O3, CO2

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