The Earth's atmosphere can be divided into several layers based on temperature changes with increasing altitude. These layers, known as atmospheric layers, have distinct characteristics and play essential roles in regulating climate, weather patterns, and other atmospheric processes. From the surface of the Earth upwards, the major layers of the atmosphere are:
1. Troposphere: The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to an average altitude of about 8-15 kilometers (5-9 miles). This layer contains the majority of the Earth's weather systems and is characterized by a decrease in temperature with increasing altitude. On average, the temperature in the troposphere decreases by about 6.5 degrees Celsius per kilometer.
2. Stratosphere: Above the troposphere is the stratosphere, which extends from the top of the troposphere to an altitude of about 50 kilometers (31 miles). The stratosphere is notable for containing the ozone layer, which absorbs much of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation. As a result, the temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude due to the absorption of solar energy by ozone.
3. Mesosphere: Beyond the stratosphere lies the mesosphere, extending from about 50 kilometers (31 miles) to approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) in altitude. In the mesosphere, the temperature decreases with increasing altitude, reaching extremely low temperatures.
4. Thermosphere: The thermosphere is situated above the mesosphere, extending from about 85 kilometers (53 miles) to about 600 kilometers (372 miles) above the Earth's surface. Although the density of gases in the thermosphere is low, it experiences extremely high temperatures due to the absorption of intense solar radiation. However, it would not feel hot to an object due to the low density of particles.
5. Exosphere: The outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere is the exosphere, which starts around 600 kilometers (372 miles) above the Earth's surface and extends into space. The density of particles in the exosphere is extremely low, and the gases gradually disperse into space.
Each atmospheric layer has unique characteristics and influences various atmospheric phenomena. The separation of these layers is primarily due to the way temperature changes with altitude and the presence of specific chemical processes. Understanding the structure of the atmosphere is crucial for studying weather patterns, climate change, satellite orbits, and the interaction between the Earth and space.
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