evolution of the atmosphereblogs.spsk12.net/7925/...9_day1_intro_to-evolution.pdf · understand the...
TRANSCRIPT
Evolution of the Atmosphere
Anticipation Guide Oxygen is the main gas found in the
atmosphere
The current atmosphere is the same
atmosphere that the Earth had when it
formed
Water vapor is a gas found in the
atmosphere
The layers of the atmosphere are defined by
temperature differences
Weather is defined as the state of the
atmosphere in the present
Focus Question
Was our atmosphere always the same as it
is today
Enduring Understanding
The composition of the Earthrsquos atmosphere
has changed over geologic time
VA SOL
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
a scientific evidence for atmospheric changes over geologic time
b current theories related to the effects of early life on the chemical makeup of the atmosphere
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Anticipation Guide Oxygen is the main gas found in the
atmosphere
The current atmosphere is the same
atmosphere that the Earth had when it
formed
Water vapor is a gas found in the
atmosphere
The layers of the atmosphere are defined by
temperature differences
Weather is defined as the state of the
atmosphere in the present
Focus Question
Was our atmosphere always the same as it
is today
Enduring Understanding
The composition of the Earthrsquos atmosphere
has changed over geologic time
VA SOL
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
a scientific evidence for atmospheric changes over geologic time
b current theories related to the effects of early life on the chemical makeup of the atmosphere
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Focus Question
Was our atmosphere always the same as it
is today
Enduring Understanding
The composition of the Earthrsquos atmosphere
has changed over geologic time
VA SOL
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
a scientific evidence for atmospheric changes over geologic time
b current theories related to the effects of early life on the chemical makeup of the atmosphere
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Enduring Understanding
The composition of the Earthrsquos atmosphere
has changed over geologic time
VA SOL
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
a scientific evidence for atmospheric changes over geologic time
b current theories related to the effects of early life on the chemical makeup of the atmosphere
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
VA SOL
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
a scientific evidence for atmospheric changes over geologic time
b current theories related to the effects of early life on the chemical makeup of the atmosphere
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
History of the Atmosphere
The air we breathe today has not always
been this friendly to life Like Earth itself
our atmosphere has evolved over geologic
time and made necessary changes to be
able to support life
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
The Early (Precambrian)
Atmosphere
Hydrogen and Helium dominated Earths earliest
atmosphere
Gravity could not keep these lightweight gasses from
escaping into space
Heavier gasses such as CO2 and Nitrogen remained
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Outgassing
Much or Earths early atmosphere came from
volcanoes in the form of outgassing as early
volcanic activity shaped the planetrsquos surface
H2O CO2 N and CO are the most abundant
gasses vented
The early atmosphere also contained Methane
(CH4) and Ammonia (NH3) as a result of
chemical reactions among the volcanic gasses
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Oxygen
Volcanoes do not outgas O2 which is vital for
animal life to evolve outside of the oceans This
most commonly accepted to be from early forms of
microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
that converted the abundant CO2 into O2 as they
carried out their process of photosynthesis for
energy
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Photsynthesis
In photosynthesis plants use solar energy to
convert water and carbon dioxide into sugar
for energy and tissue construction Oxygen
is given off as the waste product
ImagesAtmosphere Historypdf
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Ozone
Oxygen is not only important for respiration
In the upper atmosphere it is split by high
energy UV radiation and recombines to form
a layer of O3 that protects us from the UV
radiation
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
CompositionStructure of
the Atmosphere
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Focus Question
What is all that matter above our heads in
which we live and depend
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
VA SOL
SOL 2 (Infused) The student will demonstrate scientific reasoning and logic by
a analyzing how science explains and predicts the interactions and dynamics of complex Earth systems and
SOL 12 The student will investigate and understand the origin and evolution of the atmosphere and the interrelationship of geologic processes biologic processes and human activities on its composition and dynamics Key concepts include
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Composition of the Atmosphere
The atmosphere and especially the air we
breathe is a delicately balanced mixture of
many gasses but mostly nitrogen and
oxygen If either of these two were to
change significantly life as we know it could
not exist
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Composition of the Atmosphere
The Earthrsquos atmosphere is 21 oxygen 78 nitrogen and 1 trace gasses argon CO2 and water vapor are the most abundant
The amounts of CO2 and water vapor vary significantly
The water vapor levels can be as much as 4 or as little as almost 0 depending on the season and area
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 and water vapor levels are critical to
our survival because they regulate the
amount of energy the atmosphere can
absorb
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Composition of the Atmosphere
Water in the atmosphere stores and
releases heat when it changes from one
state to another causing the weather
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Composition of the Atmosphere
CO2 is responsible for the greenhouse effect where light
energy from the Sun is reflected back into the atmosphere
as infrared energy causing heat to accumulate Too much
CO2 is strongly believed to be the cause of global
warming trends
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Structure of the Atmosphere
There are four main layers of the Earthrsquos
atmosphere These layers are not rigidly
defined by any certain altitude Their
boundaries are defined by altitude levels
where the temperature trends reverse
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Structure of the Atmosphere
Troposphere is the lowest layer It is the
densest layer and is the layer in which
most of the clouds and all weather occurs
ndash The temperature decreases as altitude
increases
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Structure of the Atmosphere
The tropopause defines the upper
boundary and varies from about 16 km at
the tropics to 9 km at the poles
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Structure of the Atmosphere
Stratosphere is the next layer and begins
above the tropopause It is made of primarily
concentrated ozone
ndash The temperature increases as altitude
increases
ndash The stratopause defines the upper boundary
and is located about 50 km above Earthrsquos
surface
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Mesosphere
Mesosphere is the third layer from the
bottom and the temperature again
decreases with altitude
The mesopause is the upper boundary at
about 80 km
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Thermosphere
Thermosphere is the highest layer but only
contains a minute portion of the overall
atmospheric mass The temperature again
increases with altitude to more than 1000
degrees C
ndash The thermosphere also contains the
ionosphere
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Atmospheric Energy Transfer
Space is a very cold place yet the surface
of the Earth is quite warm and comfortable
How does the energy from our Sun get
converted to the useable forms that support
life here
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of energy through
space by electromagnetic waves (UV
visible infrared gamma)
Earth absorbs solar radiation but also
sends just about the same amount of energy
back into space
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Conduction
Conduction is the transfer of energy by
direct contact such as when a pot water is
placed on a stove burner Heat energy is
transferred from the burner to the bottom of
the pot then from the pot to the water
ndash Little of our atmospheric processes involve
conduction
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Convection
Convection is the transfer of energy through
the flow of a heated substance (air water
rock)
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Convection
As pockets of air at the Earthrsquos surface are
heated they become less dense than the
surrounding air and rise
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Convection
As the air rises it begins to expand and
cool to where it is cooler than the
surrounding air then sinks again
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Convection
This ongoing process primarily responsible
for the many changes we see in our weather
throughout the year as air warms cools
rises and falls as heat energy is either
gained or lost
Convection
Convection