atmosphere

Atmosphere

The gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth, composed mainly of oxygen and nitrogen, with four layers:troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere.

Ecosystem services

Processes provided by nature that humans rely on, such as the ozone layer's protection from harmful UV radiation and the provision of oxygen.

Solar radiation

Electromagnetic radiation spectrum including gamma rays, x-rays, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwave, and radio waves, with different energy levels and interactions with the atmosphere.

Earth-atmosphere energy balance

The atmosphere's role in trapping infrared radiation, contributing significantly to the Earth's warming by reflecting energy back to the surface.

Hadley circulation

The cycle of air rising, being transported laterally, and falling at low latitudes, influencing global weather patterns and creating major wind systems.

Coriolis effect

Deflection of moving air or water due to Earth's rotation, influencing wind direction and creating global wind patterns.

Polar vortex

A prevailing wind pattern circling the Arctic, influencing cold air movements and interactions with global warming.

Oceanic conveyor belt

Transfer of warm and cold water between oceans, affected by temperature and salt concentration, impacting global climate and circulation patterns.

Effects of ice melting

Melting ice inputting freshwater into oceans can disrupt thermohaline circulation, potentially leading to colder winters and altered climate patterns.