Topic 1 · 14.1 · Free
Topic Notes · Easy summaries with diagrams
Chapter 14 — chapter 14
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📘Easy summary
The atmosphere has four distinct layers determined by the change in temperature with altitude. Troposphere: lowest region, up to 12 km; contains the major gases (N₂, O₂, CO₂); temperature decreases regularly from 17 °C to −58 °C because it is heated from the ground and air expands and cools as it rises; densest layer, where rain, lightning and hurricanes occur. Stratosphere: 12–50 km; temperature increases from −58 °C to −2 °C because the ozone layer absorbs ultraviolet radiation (O₂ → 2O; O + O₂ → O₃ releases heat). Above lie the mesosphere (temperature falls) and thermosphere (temperature rises).
⭐Key points
- Troposphere 0–12 km, T falls.
- Stratosphere 12–50 km, T rises.
- Ozone absorbs UV.
🔬Diagram
🌿Real-life example
Jets fly in the lower stratosphere to avoid weather.
💡Exam tip
- Explain temperature trend by heat source.
✅Quick check
1. Temperature rises in the stratosphere due to:
2. Weather occurs in:
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