Textbook Question
(a) What is the primary basis for the division of the atmosphere into different regions?
3
views
1
rank
Ch.18 - Chemistry of the Environment
Chapter 18, Problem 11b
(b) Name the regions of the atmosphere, indicating the altitude interval for each one.
Verified step by step guidance1
The atmosphere is divided into several layers based on temperature gradients and other characteristics. The first layer is the Troposphere, which extends from the Earth's surface up to about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) depending on the latitude.
Above the Troposphere is the Stratosphere, which ranges from about 15 kilometers (9 miles) to approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) above the Earth's surface. This layer contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation.
The next layer is the Mesosphere, extending from about 50 kilometers (31 miles) to 85 kilometers (53 miles) above the Earth. This is where most meteors burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere.
Above the Mesosphere is the Thermosphere, which ranges from about 85 kilometers (53 miles) to 600 kilometers (373 miles) above the Earth. This layer is characterized by a significant increase in temperature with altitude.
The outermost layer is the Exosphere, starting around 600 kilometers (373 miles) and extending up to 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles). This layer gradually fades into outer space and contains very low densities of hydrogen and helium.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
2mWas this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Atmospheric Layers
The atmosphere is divided into distinct layers based on temperature gradients and altitude. The main layers include the troposphere (0-12 km), where weather occurs; the stratosphere (12-50 km), which contains the ozone layer; the mesosphere (50-85 km), where temperatures decrease; and the thermosphere (85 km and above), characterized by high temperatures and low density.
Recommended video:
Guided course
08:52
Acid-Base Extraction
Temperature Gradient
The temperature gradient refers to how temperature changes with altitude in the atmosphere. In the troposphere, temperature decreases with height, while in the stratosphere, it increases due to the absorption of UV radiation by ozone. Understanding these gradients is essential for comprehending atmospheric phenomena and the behavior of different layers.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:48Temperature vs Heat
Altitude Intervals
Altitude intervals define the specific height ranges for each atmospheric layer. These intervals are crucial for understanding atmospheric science, as they influence weather patterns, climate, and the behavior of aircraft. Each layer has unique characteristics and functions, making the knowledge of these intervals important for various scientific and practical applications.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:42Average Rate Calculation Example
Related Practice
Textbook Question
(a) How are the boundaries between the regions of the atmosphere determined?
1
views
Textbook Question
(b) Explain why the stratosphere, which is about 35 km thick, has a smaller total mass than the troposphere, which is about 12 km thick.
5
views
Textbook Question
Air pollution in the Mexico City metropolitan area is among the worst in the world. The concentration of ozone in Mexico City has been measured at 441 ppb (0.441 ppm). Mexico City sits at an altitude of 7400 feet, which means its atmospheric pressure is only 0.67 atm. (a) Calculate the partial pressure of ozone at 441 ppb if the atmospheric pressure is 0.67 atm.