WEATHER

Atmosphere

A mixture of gases surrounding the Earth that is essential for life, providing air and protecting from harmful solar radiation.

Air Pressure

The force exerted by air molecules on surfaces, which affects weather patterns.

Troposphere

The lowest and densest layer of the atmosphere where weather occurs, containing water vapor and life forms.

Stratosphere

The layer of the atmosphere that contains the ozone layer, which absorbs UV radiation, and where temperature increases with altitude.

Mesosphere

The coldest layer of the atmosphere, where temperatures can drop to -93°C and large wind storms can occur.

Thermosphere

The uppermost layer of the atmosphere, with temperatures reaching up to 1700°C and very few air molecules.

Greenhouse Effect

The process by which certain gases trap thermal energy in the atmosphere, keeping the Earth warm.

Wind

Moving air created by differences in air pressure caused by temperature variations.

Coriolis Effect

The curving of moving objects, such as wind, due to the Earth's rotation, influencing weather patterns.

Trade Winds

Winds that blow from 30 degrees latitude to the equator, crucial for tropical weather systems.

Jet Stream

A high-speed band of air in the troposphere and lower stratosphere that reaches speeds up to 250 km/h and steers weather systems.

Primary Pollutants

Pollutants emitted directly into the atmosphere from human or natural activities.

Secondary Pollutants

Pollutants formed when primary pollutants react in the atmosphere, creating new harmful substances.

Acid Precipitation

Rain that occurs when pollutants mix with water vapor, leading to acid rain that can damage structures.