Introduction to Atmosphere

Question 1

Describe the composition of the atmosphere

Answer 1

50% of air mass at or below 6km/3.8mi above SL, 48% 16mi, 2% above
Permanent gases: N2- 78%, O2- 21% Ar- 1%
Variable: H2O (0-4%), CH4, O3, particulates

Question 2

Vertical Structure of Atmosphere

Answer 2

Troposphere: where weather occurs, temp & pressure decrease as altitude increases
Stratosphere: ozone layer absorbs UV radiation, temp increases with altitude

Question 3

Describe the 7 controls of weather and climate

Answer 3

1) Latitude: Temp and temp range
2) Distribution of Land & Water: Temp range
3) Circulation of Atmosphere: Precipitation and wind
4) Circulation of Oceans: Temp and precipitation
5) Altitude: Temp
6) Topographic Barriers: Precipitation
7) Storms: Just do

Question 4

Coriolis Effect

Answer 4

Due to Earth’s rotation, all objects in the atmosphere curve. Je schneller, desto mehr die Corliolis Effect sich ans Objekt wirkt. Deflect right in NH, left in SH