Atmosphere & Climate

Which layer of the atmosphere contains the ozone layer that absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation?

• Troposphere

• Stratosphere

• Mesosphere

• Thermosphere

Answer explanation

The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which plays a crucial role in absorbing and scattering harmful ultraviolet solar radiation, protecting life on Earth.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the primary function of the Earth's atmosphere in relation to temperature regulation?

• It increases the Earth's temperature by trapping heat.

• It decreases the Earth's temperature by reflecting sunlight.

• It stabilizes the Earth's temperature by balancing heat absorption and radiation.

• It has no effect on the Earth's temperature.

Answer explanation

The Earth's atmosphere stabilizes temperature by balancing heat absorption from the sun and heat radiation back into space, preventing extreme temperature fluctuations.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following best describes the role of the greenhouse effect in Earth's climate system?

• It allows all solar radiation to escape back into space.

• It traps some of the outgoing infrared radiation, warming the planet.

• It reflects all incoming solar radiation.

• It has no impact on Earth's climate.

Answer explanation

The greenhouse effect is crucial as it traps some outgoing infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping into space, which warms the planet. This process is essential for maintaining Earth's temperature and supporting life.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Identify the correct sequence of atmospheric layers from the Earth's surface upwards.

• Stratosphere, Troposphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere

• Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere

• Mesosphere, Troposphere, Stratosphere, Thermosphere

• Thermosphere, Mesosphere, Stratosphere, Troposphere

Answer explanation

The correct sequence of atmospheric layers from the Earth's surface upwards is Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, and Thermosphere. This order reflects how the atmosphere is structured, with the Troposphere being the lowest layer.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which wind cell is located between the equator and 30 degrees latitude in both hemispheres?

• Polar Cell

• Ferrel Cell

• Hadley Cell

• Equatorial Cell

Answer explanation

The Hadley Cell is the wind cell located between the equator and 30 degrees latitude in both hemispheres. It is responsible for the trade winds and is characterized by rising warm air at the equator and descending cool air at around 30 degrees.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the main reason for the formation of different wind cells on Earth?

• The rotation of the Earth

• The uniform distribution of solar energy

• The varying density of the Earth's crust

• The presence of large bodies of water

Answer explanation

The main reason for the formation of different wind cells on Earth is the rotation of the Earth. This rotation causes the Coriolis effect, which influences wind patterns and leads to the creation of distinct wind cells.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

How does the atmosphere contribute to the water cycle?

• By preventing evaporation

• By storing water in the form of clouds

• By facilitating the condensation of water vapor

• By eliminating precipitation

Answer explanation

The atmosphere facilitates the condensation of water vapor, which is essential for cloud formation and precipitation, thus playing a crucial role in the water cycle.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which atmospheric layer is known for its role in radio communication due to its ionized particles?

• Troposphere

• Stratosphere

• Mesosphere

• Thermosphere

Answer explanation

The thermosphere contains ionized particles that reflect radio waves, making it essential for radio communication. In contrast, the troposphere, stratosphere, and mesosphere do not have this property.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the primary cause of the greenhouse effect?

• The presence of oxygen in the atmosphere

• The presence of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane

• The absence of clouds

• The Earth's magnetic field

Answer explanation

The primary cause of the greenhouse effect is the presence of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, which trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following is a consequence of the greenhouse effect?

• Decreased global temperatures

• Increased global temperatures

• Constant global temperatures

• No change in global temperatures

Answer explanation

The greenhouse effect traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to increased global temperatures. This process is essential for maintaining a habitable climate, but excessive greenhouse gases can cause significant warming.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept