Introduction to the Atmosphere Flashcards
1
Q
What is the troposphere?
A
The atmosphere 10km or less from earth
2
Q
What is the stratosphere?
A
Above the troposphere
10-50 km
3
Q
What are the factors affecting climate?
A
Abiotic factors
- temperature + precipitation
Biotic factors
- plants + animals
4
Q
What was the atmosphere like in the past?
A
- Before plants evolved to photosynthesis, there was no free oxygen
- Gradually inc. to 35% by end of Carboniferous period, when co2 concentration reduced to 350ppm
- Now avg temp is 15degrees w 400ppm co2
5
Q
How much colder would the Earth be without the greenhouse effect?
A
33 degrees cooler
6
Q
How much of the sun’s incoming short wave radiation is absorbed by the earth?
A
51% absorbed // used in photosynthesis, heating ground + seas, evaporation
