Atmosphere Review/Practice Flashcard

Front

What is the ionosphere?

Back

A layer of the Earth's atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons, allowing it to reflect radio waves.

Front

How does the ionosphere affect radio communication?

Back

It reflects radio waves, enabling long-distance radio communication.

Front

Where is the ozone layer located?

Back

In the stratosphere, which is the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere.

Front

What is the primary function of the ozone layer?

Back

To absorb the majority of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Front

What gas do plants release during photosynthesis?

Back

Oxygen.

Front

What is the significance of oxygen in the atmosphere?

Back

Oxygen is essential for the respiration of most living organisms and is a byproduct of photosynthesis.

Front

What are the Van Allen radiation belts?

Back

Zones of charged particles trapped by Earth's magnetic field, located above the atmosphere.

Front

What happens to the boiling point of water at higher elevations?

Back

Water boils at a lower temperature due to decreased atmospheric pressure.

Front

What is the troposphere?

Back

The lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, where weather occurs and where most of the atmosphere's mass is found.

Front

What is the stratosphere?

Back

The layer of the atmosphere above the troposphere, characterized by a temperature increase with altitude and containing the ozone layer.