Chapter 1 - Atmosphere

Question 1

The most abundant greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

Answer 1

Water vapor and carbon dioxide. Absorbs a portion of earth’s outgoing radiant energy.

Question 2

Important roles for water in the atmosphere?

Answer 2

4-1% of atmosphere. 1. Precipitation. 2. Releases large amount of latent heat when vapor –> liquid or ice. Important source of atmospheric energy (thunderstorms ets). 3. Greenhouse gas.

Question 3

Explain concept of air pressure.

Answer 3

Represents the total mass of air above that level (force/area).

Question 4

Why does air pressure decrease with increasing height above the surface?

Answer 4

There is less mass of air molecules above that level. –> less force/area.

Question 5

Why would you not be able to survive in the upper statosphere even though there is 21% oxygen?

Answer 5

The air has very low density at this height (1hPa). The amount of oxygen is therefore not very high.

Question 6

How does weather differ from climate?

Answer 6

weather = the condition of the atmosphere at any particular time and place. Climate = observed weather elements over a specified interval of time (“average weather”)

Question 7

What is the standard pressure of the atmosphere?

Answer 7

1013.25 mbar/hPa = 1 ATM