Layers of the Atmosphere
Vocabulary
Composition
Human Impact
100

This is the lowest layer of the atmosphere where weather occurs.

Troposphere

100

The study of the atmosphere and the processes that cause weather

Meteorology

100

the most abundant gas in the atmosphere.

Nitrogen

100

The mass removal of trees causing increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

Deforestation 

200

This atmospheric layer contains the ozone layer that absorbs harmful UV radiation.

Stratosphere

200

the thin layer of gases that surround Earth.

Atmosphere

200

The gas essential for respiration that makes up about 21% of the atmosphere.

Oxygen

200

Sources: industrial processes, vehicle emissions, agricultural activities, and burning of fossil fuels.

Air Pollution

300

Most meteors burn up in this layer of the atmosphere.

Mesosphere

300

In addition to the main elements found in the atmosphere, the atmosphere also contains various tiny solid and liquid particles called...

Particulates

300

This gas is present in small amounts but plays a major role in regulating Earth’s temperature.

Carbon Dioxide

300

Sources: burning fossil fuels
(coal, oil, natural gas),
livestock farming, landfills,
and industrial processes.

Greenhouse gas emissions 

400

This layer has very thin air and is where the International Space Station orbits.

Thermosphere

400

the pressure exerted on a surface by the atmosphere; applied equally in all directions (up, down, sideways).

Atmospheric pressure

400

This variable gas is responsible for humidity and cloud formation.

Water Vapor

400

Human activities have increased
carbon dioxide levels,
contributing to

Global Warming

500

This outermost layer of Earth’s atmosphere gradually blends into outer space.

Exosphere

500

Meteorologists measure atmospheric pressure by using an instrument called a

Barometer

500

This group of gases, including argon and neon, makes up less than 1% of the atmosphere.

Trace gasses / noble gasses

500

This effect traps heat in the atmosphere and keeps Earth warm enough for life.

greenhouse effect

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