Atmosphere Flashcards
Define weather
Condition of atmosphere over short period of time
Define atmosphere
Colourless, gaseous layer which surrounds the earth, held close by gravity
Define climate
Ave. condition diction of atmosphere over long period of time
What is a meteorologist
Person who studies weather
What is a climatologist
Person who studies climate
What is the importance of the atmosphere (5)
Sustains life - O2 Protects from UV rays - o3 absorbs Regulates temp. - h2o & co2 absorbs heat Protects from meteors - friction with gases burns Creates weather- h2o = clouds
What will happen if there was no atmosphere? (6)
No oxygen= no life No ozone= burning Extreme temp. No rain= no h2o No sound waves= no movement of air No flying= no air
What is the composition of the atmosphere?
Gases: permanent- n2 78% & O2 21% & others 1%
Variable- co2, methane, h2o vapour, o3
Microscopic solid particles: hygroscopic nuclei e.g. Dust, ash, smoke
What are the effects of depletion?
UV rays reach earth!
Causes ageing of skin, cataracts …
Ways of reducing depletion
Use ozone friendly products
Environmental education
Find alternatives to CFCs
Describe troposphere
\+ LP High concentration of gases Contains life Weather Warmest layer Hygroscopic nuclei
Describe stratosphere
2nd layer - LP Ozone absorbs UV rays = hot No weather and life Jet streams
Describe mesosphere
3rd layer \+ LP Lack of ozone = no heat Coldest layer Meteors burn
Describe thermosphere
Outer layer - LP Auroras Shield us from suns lethal rays Burns meteorites Lowest concentration of gases
