Chapter 3: Problem 4

Describe the overall temperature profile of the atmosphere and list the four layers defined by temperature.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The temperature profile of the atmosphere refers to how temperature changes with altitude. The atmosphere is divided into four layers based on these changes, they are: Troposphere (weather happens here, temperature decreases with height), Stratosphere (ozone layer and airplanes, temperature rises with height), Mesosphere (most meteoroids burn up here, temperature decreases with altitude), and Thermosphere (intersection with space, temperature rises significantly with height).

Step by step solution

Understand the Atmosphere's Temperature Profile

The temperature profile of the atmosphere refers to how temperature changes with altitude. Typically, as we move higher from the earth's surface, the temperature decreases until a certain point, then starts to increase.

Identify and Describe the Four Layers

The four layers of the atmosphere are the Troposphere, the Stratosphere, the Mesosphere, and the Thermosphere. These layers are defined by the variations in temperature with height.

Detail Each Layer

The Troposphere is the layer closest to Earth's surface, where weather happens. The Stratosphere is above the troposphere, where the ozone layer is and airplanes fly. The Mesosphere is the middle layer where most meteoroids burn up. The Thermosphere is the outermost layer, where the earth's atmosphere meets space, and the Northern and Southern lights occur here due to solar radiation.

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Describe the overall temperature profile of the atmosphere and list the four layers defined by temperature.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Atmosphere's Temperature Profile

Identify and Describe the Four Layers

Detail Each Layer

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