Layers of the Atmosphere Quizlet

Ozone layer

Layer in the stratosphere that protects Earth from harmful UV rays from the sun.

Ionosphere

Level in the thermosphere, contains electrically charged particles called ions. Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) occur in this layer.

Air pressure

Measure of the force with which air molecules push on an object. It is greatest (strongest) at the troposphere.

Atmosphere

Mixture of gases that surround a planet or moon. Made of a mixture of elements and compounds.

What do molecules look like in the exosphere?

Molecules are spread apart (least dense)

What do molecules look like in the troposphere?

Molecules are tightly packed (most dense)

Two most abundant gases in Earth's atmosphere

Nitrogen (78%) and Oxygen (21%)

Exosphere

Outermost layer of the atmosphere or outer layer of the thermosphere. It is the least dense and satellites orbit here. Made of hydrogen and helium.

Stratosphere

Second layer of Earth's atmosphere. Ozone layer and jet stream is here.

Jet stream

A strong steady wind tunnel that planes fly in. It is found in the stratosphere

Hydrosphere

Combined mass of water found on the surface, under the surface and above the surface of Earth

Troposphere

Densest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, the layer in which weather occurs, where all life lives. Has the highest air pressure.

When altitude increases, what happens to density and air pressure?

Density and air pressure decrease

Altitude

Height above sea level

Thermosphere

Hottest layer of the atmosphere. The ionosphere is located here, which causes the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.

Mesosphere

Third or middle layer of Earth's atmosphere. Coldest layer and meteors burn up in this layer. This layer protects us from meteors as well.

Mnemonic to remember the order of the layers of the atmosphere

Tropical Storms Make Terrible Exits

75%-80% of all molecules are located here

Troposphere

Which layers of the atmosphere do planes fly through?

Troposphere and stratosphere