The Structure of the Atmosphere

The atmosphere is a layer of gases that surround the Earth and is divided into several distinct layers based on temperature changes and composition. These layers include the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.

Troposphere:
The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to an altitude of about 12 kilometers at the poles and 18 kilometers at the equator. It is the layer where weather occurs, and temperature decreases with increasing altitude. The troposphere contains about 75% of the atmosphere's mass and almost all of its water vapor and clouds.

Stratosphere:
The stratosphere lies above the troposphere and extends up to approximately 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. In this layer, the temperature increases with altitude due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs and filters out most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. The stratosphere is relatively stable and contains the ozone layer, which protects life on Earth.

Mesosphere:
The mesosphere is located above the stratosphere and extends up to about 85 kilometers. In this layer, the temperature decreases with increasing altitude, reaching extremely low temperatures. Meteors burn up in the mesosphere, creating bright streaks of light known as shooting stars.

Thermosphere:
The thermosphere is the layer above the mesosphere and extends up to about 600 kilometers. The temperature in this layer increases significantly with altitude due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation. The thermosphere is also home to the auroras and the International Space Station.

Exosphere:
The exosphere is the outermost layer of the atmosphere, extending beyond the thermosphere. It gradually transitions into the vacuum of space. The density of particles in the exosphere is extremely low, and it contains gases like hydrogen and helium. Satellites orbit the Earth in the exosphere.

Summary:
- The atmosphere is divided into several layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.
- The troposphere is the layer closest to the Earth's surface and contains weather systems.
- The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which protects against harmful ultraviolet radiation.
- The mesosphere is where meteors burn up and temperatures decrease with altitude.
- The thermosphere experiences high temperatures due to the absorption of solar radiation.
- The exosphere is the outermost layer and gradually transitions into space.