Unit 1: Atmosphere and Weather

Atmosphere

An envelope of gases and small particles surrounding Earth that shields life from harsh space conditions and interacts with solar energy.

Troposphere

The closest layer to Earth’s surface, where most weather events occur.

Stratosphere

Layer above the troposphere marked by a stable region of air, where ozone forms and harmful UV radiation is absorbed.

Mesosphere

The middle layer of the atmosphere where temperature decreases with altitude and vertical mixing of gases occurs.

Thermosphere

The hottest layer of the atmosphere, strongly influenced by solar activity, where auras form.

Exosphere

The outermost layer of the atmosphere that is very thin, allowing molecules to escape into space.

Solar Energy

The energy source for Earth, emitted from nuclear fusion in the Sun's core, primarily in visible light and UV radiation.

Air Mass

A large body of air with similar temperature and humidity.

Fronts

Boundaries between air masses, including stationary, cold, warm, and occluded fronts.

Tornado

A rapidly spinning column of air that can reach speeds of 320 kph (200 mph) originating from thunderstorms.

Hurricane

A large storm formed over warm ocean waters, characterized by winds moving east to west.

Climate

The long-term pattern of atmospheric conditions, including temperature and precipitation averages.

Albedo

The proportion of light reflected by a surface; higher albedo reflects more energy.

Thermocline

A layer of water below the surface where temperatures drop sharply.

Upwelling

The process where winds push surface water away, allowing deeper water to rise to the surface.

Air Pressure

The weight of a column of air above a certain spot, influencing weather conditions.

Geosphere

The solid part of Earth made up of rock and soil.

Hydrosphere

All water on and around Earth, including ice and vapor.

Biosphere

All living organisms on Earth and in the atmosphere.

Doppler Radar

Technology used to detect precipitation, wind speed and direction, and tornado debris within the atmosphere.

Weather Forecast

Predictions about weather conditions based on meteorological data.

Climate Changes Over Millions of Years

Gradual changes in Earth's climate due to shifts in land masses and ocean currents.