Problem 9 - 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 due to variations in temperature with altitude. The atmosphere is divided into five primary regions: 1. Troposphere: Extends from the Earth's surface to about 8 km at the poles and up to 18 km near the equator. 2. Stratosphere: Located above the troposphere with an altitude range of approximately 18 km to 50 km. 3. Mesosphere: Between the stratosphere and the thermosphere, with an altitude range of about 50 km to 85 km. 4. Thermosphere: Located above the mesosphere, with an altitude range of around 85 km to 600 km. 5. Exosphere: The outermost region with an altitude range of about 600 km and beyond.

Step 1: Part (a): Identifying the primary basis for the division of the atmosphere into different regions

The primary basis for dividing the atmosphere into different regions is due to variations in temperature with altitude. Within each region, there are specific temperature trends that are dominant, ultimately leading to the categorization of the atmosphere into several layers.

Step 2: Part (b): Naming the regions of the atmosphere and their altitude intervals

The atmosphere is divided into five primary regions based on their temperature profiles and altitude intervals. These regions are: 1. Troposphere: \(This\) is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, where weather occurs. The altitude range of the troposphere varies with latitude - it extends from the Earth's surface to about 8 km (5 miles) at the poles and up to 18 km (11 miles) near the equator. 2. Stratosphere: \(This\) region is located above the troposphere and has an altitude range of approximately 18 km (11 miles) to 50 km (31 miles). In the stratosphere, the temperature generally increases with altitude due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 3. Mesosphere: \(This\) is the region between the stratosphere and the thermosphere, with an altitude range of about 50 km (31 miles) to 85 km (53 miles). In the mesosphere, the temperature decreases with altitude, reaching the lowest temperatures in the atmosphere. 4. Thermosphere: \(This\) region is located above the mesosphere, with an altitude range of around 85 km (53 miles) to 600 km (372 miles). In the thermosphere, the temperature increases with altitude due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation by gas molecules. The air in this layer is very thin, and the boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space lies within the thermosphere. 5. Exosphere: \(This\) is the outermost region of the atmosphere and transitions into space. It has an altitude range of about 600 km (372 miles) and beyond. In the exosphere, the temperature is relatively constant, but the density of gas molecules is extremely low. These five regions encompass the Earth's atmosphere and each has unique properties associated with their temperature profiles and altitude intervals.