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Atmosphere
One of the main components of Earth’s interdependent physical systems is the atmosphere. An atmosphere is the layers of gases surrounding a planet or other celestial body. Earth’s atmosphere is composed of about 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and one percent other gases. These gases are found in layers (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere) defined by unique features such as temperature and pressure. The atmosphere protects life on earth by shielding it from incoming ultraviolet (UV) radiation, keeping the planet warm through insulation, and preventing extremes between day and night temperatures. The sun heats layers of the atmosphere causing it to convect driving air movement and weather patterns around the world. Teach your students about the Earth's atmosphere with the resources in this collection.
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Ozone Depletion 101
Far above Earth's surface, the ozone layer helps to protect life from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Learn what CFCs are, how they have contributed to the ozone hole, and how the 1989 Montreal Protocol sought to put an end to ozone depletion.
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ozone layer
Encyclopedic entry. The ozone layer is one layer of the stratosphere, the second layer of the Earth’s atmosphere. The stratosphere is the mass of protective gases clinging to our planet.
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Atmosphere
One of the main components of Earth’s interdependent physical systems is the atmosphere. An atmosphere is the layers of gases surrounding a planet or other celestial body. Earth’s atmosphere is composed of about 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and one percent other gases. These gases are found in layers (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere) defined by unique features such as temperature and pressure. The atmosphere protects life on earth by shielding it from incoming ultraviolet (UV) radiation, keeping the planet warm through insulation, and preventing extremes between day and night temperatures. The sun heats layers of the atmosphere causing it to convect driving air movement and weather patterns around the world. Teach your students about the Earth's atmosphere with the resources in this collection.
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Ozone Depletion 101
Far above Earth's surface, the ozone layer helps to protect life from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Learn what CFCs are, how they have contributed to the ozone hole, and how the 1989 Montreal Protocol sought to put an end to ozone depletion.
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ozone layer
Encyclopedic entry. The ozone layer is one layer of the stratosphere, the second layer of the Earth’s atmosphere. The stratosphere is the mass of protective gases clinging to our planet.