Layers of the Atmosphere

Layers of the Atmosphere Divided into four main layers according to difference in temperature structure. Layers are introduced from lowest to highest altitude

1. The Troposphere Layer closest to earth’s surface extends to about 10 km (6 mi) All weather changes occur here Temperature decreases as altitude increases

1. The Troposphere The upper boundary is called the tropopause

2. The Stratosphere Extends from 10 km to 50 km (31 mi) temperature increases as altitude increases Ozone layer is here jet planes fly here

2. The Stratosphere Horizontal winds are very strong; up to 200 mph (JET STREAM) upper layer = stratopause

3. The Mesosphere Extends from 50 km to 80 km (50 mi) Temperature decreases as altitude increases coldest layer (-100o celsius) upper boundary = mesopause Keeps the ozone in the Stratosphere.

4. The Thermosphere Extends from 80 km up to space Temperature increases as altitude increases The air is very thin

4. The Thermosphere Two regions: lower region = ionosphere extends from 80 km to 550 km captures and transfers radio waves

4. The Thermosphere Two regions: upper region = exosphere extends from 550 km to space The Zone of indefinite altitude