The Atmosphere

The Atmosphere

Characteristics of the Atmosphere

How important is our atmosphere?

moderates temperature
- (moon 400F sunside to -250F dark side)
medium for travel
- without silence, no aircraft or birds, no parachute, no meteor protection
diffuses sunlight and equalize temps and pressures
- attain equilibrium
provides gases for life
- nitrogen and oxygen for plants and animals

Composition of the Atmosphere:

Nitrogen 78% - supports plant growth
Oxygen 21% - supports chemical reactions
Argon 1% - combined with other gases, minimal effect on weather

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) .03% - absorbs infrared radiation (warming)

sustains plant life through photosynthesis
- carbon cycle - sunlight, carbohydrates, energy, decay

Ozone (O3) trace amounts - absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation
- destroyed by modern compounds (CFC, refridgerants & aerosols)
- hole in Antarctica from human influence
Water Vapor and Solids — absorbs heat

Troposphere - depth of 5 to 11 miles

most weather takes place within the troposphere
- above which there are no clouds
great pressure beneath mass of air

- read textbook for explanation of atmospheric layers & temperature changes -

Weather and Climate Controls Exercise

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