The Earth's atmosphere has five layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, each with unique characteristics and functions.
Extends from the Earth's surface up to 12 km, containing clouds, airplanes, and most weather phenomena. It's the heaviest layer with 80% of the atmosphere's mass.
Ranges from 12 km to 54 km, featuring the ozone layer which absorbs harmful UV radiation, and nacreous clouds.
Mesosphere and Thermosphere
The mesosphere (up to 85 km) is cold and forms clouds. The thermosphere (up to 900 km) contains ions, auroras, and the International Space Station, with temperatures rising due to solar activity.
The exosphere is the outermost layer where atmospheric particles escape into space. The atmosphere is primarily nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%), with trace amounts of other gases.
Greenhouse gases trap heat, causing global warming. Ozone protects from UV radiation. Learn more about Earth's atmosphere with Grade 7 Science Worksheets at eTutorWorld.com.