Atmosphere Lab
Name : Samaya Nelson
Introduction
The Earth’s atmosphere is the most unique in our solar system. It provides us with the essentials
for life. It also controls our weather, and it protects us from objects coming towards the Earth
from space. Today you will be viewing a short video that explains the characteristics of our
atmosphere.
Procedure
Use the following YouTube link to answer the questions below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DftEDVzGnMg
1.
Excluding the Exosphere, what are the 4 primary layers of the earth’s atmosphere?
The four primary layers are; troposphere, stratosphere, thermosphere, and mesosphere
2.
What is the distance of the earth from the sun (in kilometers)?
The earth is 149,600,00 kilometers away from the sun.
3.
Earth is the only planet in the solar system known to have an atmosphere containing
free oxygen.
4.
Nearly all of what occurs in the troposphere?
Nearly all weather occurs in the troposphere.
5.
What is the layer found within the stratosphere called and what do ozone molecules
in this layer do?
The ozone layer is found within the stratosphere and the ozone molecules absorb UV light
converting it into heat.
6.
Why do commercial passenger airlines fly in the lower stratosphere?
They fly lower stratosphere because it provides a smoother ride.
7.
What happens to most meteors in the mesosphere?
Most meteors burn up in the mesosphere.
8.
What are the coldest temperatures in the Earth’s atmosphere in °F and in what
layer of the atmosphere does this occur?
-130 °F and this occurs in the mesosphere
9.
What is the temperature range in the upper thermosphere in °F?
The temperature range is between 932 degrees and 3,632 degrees °F.
10.
What is the outermost layer of the Earth’s atmosphere which extends from the top
of the thermosphere and merges into the solar wind at 10,000 km above sea level
called?
The outermost layer of the Earths atmosphere is called the Exosphere.