The Earth’s Atmosphere: Composition and Layers

by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023

Composition and Layers of Earth’s Atmosphere:

The Earth’s atmosphere is a layer of gases that surrounds the planet. The atmosphere is composed of a variety of different gases which interact with the surface of the Earth and absorb and emit radiation to create our climate. The atmosphere is divided into several distinct layers, each with their own unique characteristics.

Troposphere:

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending up to an altitude of 10 km (6.2 mi). This layer is the primary layer of weather and climate, as all of our weather systems are found here. It is also the layer where the majority of comprehensive water vapor, dust, and ozone concentrations are found. The troposphere is also home to all of the Earth’s living creatures.

Stratosphere:

The stratosphere is the second layer of the atmosphere, located above the troposphere. Extending up to an altitude of 50 km (31 mi) it is the layer where the majority of the ozone concentration is located, as well as the location where most jet aircraft travel. It is also where the ozone layer is located, which is important for absorbing ultraviolet radiation.

Mesosphere:

The mesosphere is the third layer of the atmosphere, located above the stratosphere. It begins at an altitude of 50 km (31 mi) and extends up to an altitude of 80 km (50 mi). Temperatures in the mesosphere drop off quickly with increasing altitude, reaching as low as -90 degrees Celsius (-130F). The mesosphere is also the layer where the majority of meteors burn up upon entering the atmosphere.

Thermosphere:

The thermosphere is the fourth layer of the atmosphere, located above the mesosphere. Temperatures in the thermosphere can be very hot, reaching temperatures of over 1400 degrees Celsius (2500F). The thermosphere is also the layer where a great deal of UV radiation is absorbed. The thermosphere is also home to the International Space Station and other satellites, as well as auroras.

Exosphere:

The exosphere is the fifth and final layer of the atmosphere, located above the thermosphere. It extends up to an altitude of 10,000 km (6200 mi) and is home to some of the most distant satellites and space vehicles. The exosphere is also the layer where the atmosphere begins to become very thin, eventually becoming indistinguishable from the space between the planets.

Composition of the Atmosphere:

The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of 78% nitrogen (नाइट्रोजन (Naitrojan)), 21% oxygen (ऑक्सीजन (Oxijan)), 0.9% argon (आर्गोन (Argon)), 0.03% carbon dioxide (कार्बोन डाइऑक्साइड (Karbonon daioxaid)), and trace amounts of other gases. In addition to these gases, the atmosphere is also composed of clouds, dust and pollen particles, and water vapor.

Conclusion

The Earth’s atmosphere is an essential part of our climate and environment. It is composed of a variety of different gases and particles which interact with each other and with the surface of the Earth. The atmosphere is also divided into several distinct layers, each with their own unique characteristics. Understanding the composition and layers of the atmosphere is crucial for understanding our climate and environment.