Physical Science, module 3 Flashcards
Define “atmospheric pressure”.
The pressure exerted by the atmosphere on all objects within it.
Define “barometer”.
An instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure.
Define “homosphere”.
The lower layer of earth’s atmosphere, which exists from ground level to roughly 80 kilometres above sea level.
Define “heterosphere”.
The upper layer of earth’s atmosphere, which exists higher than 80 kilometres above sea level.
Define “troposphere”.
The region of the atmosphere that extends from ground level to roughly 11 kilometres above sea level.
Define “stratosphere”.
The region of the atmosphere that spans altitudes of 11 km to 48 km.
Define “mesosphere”.
The region of the atmosphere that spans altitudes of 48 km to 80 km.
Define “jet streams”.
Narrow bands of high speed winds that circle the earth, blowing from west to east.
In what part of the homosphere does the earth’s weather form?
The troposphere.
Define “heat”.
Energy that is being transferred.
Define “temperature”.
A measure of the energy of motion in a substance’s molecules.
Define “thermosphere”.
The region of the atmosphere between altitudes of 80 km and 460 km.
Define “exosphere”.
The region of the atmosphere above an altitude of 460 km.
Define “ionosphere”.
The region of the atmosphere between the altitudes of 65 km and 330 km where the gases are ionized.
Define “atmosphere”.
The mass of air surrounding a planet.
