Layers of the Atmosphere

Outer Space

The atmosphere is divided into layers according to their temperature and what

goes on within it.

There are no clear boundaries between each layer.

The Troposphere

-contains over 90% of all gases in the atmosphere -contains all weather -contains all life forms

The Stratosphere

•  Contains the Ozone Layer •  Contains Jet Streams

The Mesosphere

•  is where Meteoroids burn •  is the coldest layer at all times

The Thermosphere

•  is mostly filled with ions (Ionosphere) which are charged particles

•  is where the northern lights shine •  satellites orbit here

Air Density through the atmosphere decreases as altitude increases

Gases in the Atmosphere

78% N2

21% O2

1% Ar, CO2, H2O

Heat tiles line bottom of space shuttle

Ozone Depletion

The ozone layer absorbs UV (ultraviolet) radiation from the sun. It is found in the

stratosphere.

The ozone layer is being depleted by CFC’s (choroflourocarbons):

- aerosol products (sprays)

- freon products (air conditioning)

- styrofoam products (Mc D’s)

One CFC molecule can break apart 100,000 ozone molecules and last up to 10 years.

The U.S. and other countries have banned the use of most CFC’s.

The results of increased UV :

- Higher risk of cataracts

- Higher risk of skin cancer

- A decrease in phytoplankton

- Lowering of immune system

Mark Twain on Climate: “Climate is what we expect, weather is what we get.”

Greenhouse Gases:

CO2

Climate Change •  The Earth’s overall climate is changing •  Plants, animals, and the environment are effected

•  Earth’s avg. temp has increased over 1 degree in past 10 years, BIG DEAL

•  2010 warmest year ever! 2013 and 2008 tied at 4th warmest

Main Causes of Climate Change

Factories and coal burning power plants

Car exhaust

Global Warming will cause:

Coastal Flooding Polar Ice Caps Melting

More Severe Weather Drought