Atmosphere

Atmosphere

Atmosphere: The atmosphere of a terrestrial planet is an outermost series of layers that comprises gaseous phase elements within part of the planet’s gravitational field. For instance, the Earth’s atmosphere exists in the air spaces that are approximately 95 kilometers above the ground surface. And within it, are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere. As of the date of this post, the exosphere and ionosphere are not part of the Earth’s gaseous envelope or atmosphere.

Order of Layers in the Earth’s Atmosphere

1. Troposphere

On Earth, the troposphere exists roughly 0 to 10 kilometers above mean sea level.

2. Stratosphere

The stratosphere exists roughly 10 to 50 kilometers above mean sea level on Earth.

3. Mesosphere

Earth’s mesosphere exists approximately 50 to 85 kilometers above mean sea level.

4. Thermosphere

The thermosphere starts at roughly 85 kilometers above mean sea level. As of the date of this post, there isn’t a clear understanding of the upper boundary of Earth’s thermosphere. However, it may terminate approximately 95 kilometers above mean sea level.

5. Exosphere

As of the date of this post, there isn’t a clear understanding of the lower or upper boundaries of Earth’s exosphere. However, it may commence approximately 95 kilometers above mean sea level, and terminate roughly around 190,000 kilometers above mean sea level. This distance is

Similar Posts

  • Phaneritic

    Phaneritic Definition In geology, the term Phaneritic applies to the texture of an igneous rock. A phaneritic plutonic rock has grains that are large enough to be seen with the naked eye. In fact, this indicates there was a slower rate of magmatic cooling.

  • Engineering Geology & Geological Engineering

    Engineering Geology or Geological Engineering Engineering Geology: Engineering geology is also referred to as “geological engineering,” and is a branch of geology that relates to the study of earth materials and processes, that are juxtaposed to proposed structures such as buildings, retaining walls, dams, roads, pipelines, and more. Whereby geologists assess any potential levels of…

  • Darcy’s Law

    Darcy’s Law In the field of geology, Darcy’s Law is the universal and basic equation representing groundwater flow through a study area. Darcy’s Law Formula Q = KiA The following variables and coefficients apply to this formula: “K” = Hydraulic Conductivity; “Q” = Discharge Rate; “A” = Area of Cross-Section that Water Flows;

  • Waterproofing Barrier System

    Waterproofing Barrier System Definition A waterproofing barrier system guarantees full protection to walls, foundations, and methane mitigation systems that are below grade and are susceptible to moisture penetration. Typically, the best way to protect a retaining wall against moisture is the application of a waterproofing barrier on the backside of it, after pouring concrete, but…

  • Strike-Slip Fault (Transform Fault) Definition

    Strike-Slip Fault or Transform Fault Strike-Slip Fault (Transform Fault): In the field of geology, a strike-slip fault, or a transform fault, is a fault in which movement is parallel to the strike of the fault plane. The opposite of a strike-slip fault is a dip-slip fault. Left-Lateral or Right-Lateral Strike-Slip Fault A transform fault can…

  • Toe of a Slope

    “Toe” of a Slope Definition The “toe” of a slope is essentially the bottom, or baseline section, of the soil mass comprising the slope. It is also defined as the outermost margin of displaced material during a landslide. The toe of a slope is farthest away from the head scarp.