What are the four primary layers of Earth's atmosphere?

Prepare for the American Meteorological Society Certification Exam with our quiz. Utilize flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and explanations to enhance your study for success!

The four primary layers of Earth's atmosphere are the Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, and Thermosphere.

The Troposphere is the lowest layer, extending from the surface to about 8 to 15 kilometers high, depending on the location and weather conditions. This is where we experience weather and where most of the atmosphere's mass is concentrated.

Above the Troposphere lies the Stratosphere, which extends from the top of the Troposphere to about 50 kilometers. This layer contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation, playing a crucial role in protecting life on Earth.

The Mesosphere is located above the Stratosphere and stretches from about 50 to 85 kilometers in altitude. It is the layer where temperatures decrease with altitude, and it is also where most meteorites burn up upon entering the atmosphere.

Finally, the Thermosphere is the uppermost layer of the atmosphere, reaching up to 600 kilometers. In this layer, temperatures increase significantly with altitude due to solar activity, and it contains the ionosphere, which is important for radio communication and is where phenomena like the auroras occur.

This choice accurately represents the main divisions of the atmosphere based on thermal characteristics and behavior, while

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