7.15 Crash Course Geography: What Does the Atmosphere Do?

Front

Which layer of the atmosphere contains the ozone layer?

Back

Stratosphere: The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. It contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation.

Front

What is the process called when energy is transferred through waves?

Back

Radiation: Radiation is the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium to travel, allowing heat from the sun to reach Earth.

Front

Which gas is NOT a major component of Earth's atmosphere?

Back

Helium: While nitrogen, oxygen, and argon are the major components of Earth's atmosphere, helium is present in very small amounts and is not considered a major component.

Front

What is the primary function of Earth's atmosphere?

Back

To form a protective boundary between outer space and the biosphere: The atmosphere protects life on Earth by blocking harmful solar radiation and reducing temperature extremes between day and night.

Front

What effect does the Earth's tilt have on solar energy distribution?

Back

It causes uneven distribution of solar energy: The tilt of the Earth affects the angle at which sunlight hits the surface, leading to variations in temperature and climate across different regions.

Front

What is the troposphere?

Back

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

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection: Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids and gases). It occurs when warmer, less dense areas of a fluid rise and cooler, denser areas sink.

Front

What role does the ozone layer play in the atmosphere?

Back

The ozone layer absorbs the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting living organisms on Earth from its damaging effects.

Front

What is the mesosphere?

Back

Mesosphere: The mesosphere is the third layer of Earth's atmosphere, located above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere. It is where most meteors burn up upon entering the atmosphere.

Front

What is the thermosphere?

Back

Thermosphere: The thermosphere is the layer of the atmosphere above the mesosphere, characterized by high temperatures and the presence of the ionosphere, which is important for radio communication.