Browsing: Atmosphere

The is a layer of gases surrounding a celestial body, such as the Earth, held in place by gravity. On Earth, the atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen (about 78%) and oxygen (about 21%), with trace amounts of other gases like carbon dioxide, water vapor, and argon. It plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s temperature, protecting life from harmful solar radiation, and facilitating various atmospheric processes such as weather patterns and climate dynamics. The atmosphere is divided into several layers, including the troposphere (where weather occurs), the stratosphere (home to the ozone layer), the mesosphere, and the thermosphere. Each layer has distinct characteristics and functions. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and industrial processes, can alter the composition and balance of gases in the atmosphere, leading to environmental consequences such as climate change and air pollution. Understanding the atmosphere is essential for predicting weather phenomena, studying climate change, and preserving the health of ecosystems and human populations.