What are the layers of the atmosphere?
The atmosphere is divided by temperature trends with altitude into layers including the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere and exosphere.
How it works and key principles
Characteristics: Most weather occurs in the troposphere. Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs some ultraviolet radiation. Many small meteoroids break apart in the mesosphere, while high-energy sunlight affects thermospheric gases. Boundaries are not rigid surfaces and can shift with conditions.
Evidence, examples and limits
Pressure and misconceptions: Air density and pressure generally decrease with altitude. The atmosphere is not mostly oxygen; nitrogen is its most abundant gas. A high temperature in a very thin upper layer does not mean it would feel like hot air at sea level.
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