Troposphere

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to an average height of about 7-20 kilometers (4-12 miles) depending on the latitude and season. It is where most weather phenomena occur and contains approximately 75% of the atmosphere's mass.

Characteristics of the Troposphere:

• Temperature: The temperature in the troposphere generally decreases with altitude at an average rate of 6.5 degrees Celsius per kilometer (normal lapse rate).
• Weather: Most of the Earth's weather occurs in this layer, including clouds, precipitation, and storms.
• Composition: The troposphere is composed mainly of nitrogen (about 78%) and oxygen (about 21%), along with trace amounts of other gases such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, and argon.
• Pressure: Air pressure decreases with altitude in the troposphere, with the pressure at the top of the layer being only about 10% of the pressure at the surface.

Study Guide:

1. What is the height range of the troposphere?
2. What is the typical rate of temperature change with altitude in the troposphere?
3. What are the main gases found in the troposphere?
4. Where do most weather phenomena occur in the atmosphere?
5. How does air pressure change with altitude in the troposphere?

[Troposphere] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Earth's AtmosphereScience • Sixth Grade