3. Describe the layers of the atmosphere
Q: What are the layers of the atmosphere?
A:
The atmosphere is divided into five main layers. These layers are based on height and temperature.
1. Troposphere
- Closest to the Earth
- Where all weather happens (rain, wind, clouds)
- Contains most of the air and water vapour
- Temperature decreases as you go higher
- About 0 to 12 km high
2. Stratosphere
- Above the troposphere
- Contains the ozone layer (protects us from the sun’s harmful rays)
- Planes fly here
- Temperature increases with height
- From 12 to 50 km high
3. Mesosphere
- Middle layer
- Coldest part of the atmosphere
- Meteors burn up here
- Temperature decreases again
- From 50 to 80 km high
4. Thermosphere
- Very hot layer due to sun’s energy
- Contains auroras (northern and southern lights)
- Space shuttles orbit here
- From 80 to 500 km
5. Exosphere
- Outermost layer
- Very thin air
- Merges into outer space
- Satellites orbit here
- Above 500 km
Helpful Mnemonic for Learners:
The Smart Man Taught Earth
(Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere, Exosphere)