Problem 11 - Chemistry: The Central Science

Question

(a) What is the primary basis for the division of the atmosphere into different regions? (b) Name the regions of the atmosphere, indicating the altitude interval for each one.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The primary basis for dividing the atmosphere into different regions is the variation in temperature with altitude. The five major regions of the atmosphere are: 1. Troposphere: \(0 - 8\) km at the poles and \(0 - 18\) km at the equator 2. Stratosphere: \(10 - 50\) km in altitude 3. Mesosphere: \(50 - 85\) km in altitude 4. Thermosphere: \(85 - 600\) km in altitude 5. Exosphere: \(600 - 10,000\) km in altitude

Step 1: a) Primary basis for the division of the atmosphere

The primary basis for dividing the atmosphere into different regions is the variation in temperature with altitude. These variations in temperature result in regions with distinct characteristics that help to define each atmospheric layer.

Step 2: b) Regions of the atmosphere and their altitude intervals

There are five major regions of the atmosphere, with each region having a unique temperature pattern and altitude range. These regions are: 1. Troposphere: \(0 - 8\) km at the poles and \(0 - 18\) km at the equator The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, and it is characterized by a decline in temperature with increasing altitude. This is the layer where weather occurs, and it contains around 80% of the Earth's atmospheric mass. 2. Stratosphere: \(10 - 50\) km in altitude The temperature increases with altitude in the stratosphere due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun and converts it into heat. This layer provides a protective barrier against harmful UV rays and contains the Earth's ozone layer. 3. Mesosphere: \(50 - 85\) km in altitude The mesosphere is characterized by a decrease in temperature with increasing altitude. This is the layer where meteors typically burn up due to atmospheric drag and friction. 4. Thermosphere: \(85 - 600\) km in altitude The thermosphere has a significant increase in temperature with altitude, primarily due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation by gas molecules in this layer. The air becomes extremely thin, and this is the layer where the International Space Station orbits the Earth. 5. Exosphere: \(600 - 10,000\) km in altitude The exosphere is the outermost layer of the atmosphere, and temperatures can vary significantly in this region. It gradually transitions into outer space as molecules become too sparse to form a continuous medium.