Troposphere: Explanation and Study Guide

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to an average height of about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) at the poles and 18 to 20 kilometers (11 to 12 miles) at the equator. It is where the weather phenomena occur and where most of the Earth's atmospheric water vapor is located.

Key Facts about the Troposphere:

• It contains about 75% of the total mass of the atmosphere.
• Temperatures generally decrease with altitude in the troposphere.
• It is the layer where clouds, precipitation, and most weather events take place.
• Human activities, such as pollution and industrial emissions, have a direct impact on the troposphere.

Study Guide:

1. What is the troposphere?

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, where weather phenomena occur and where most of the Earth's atmospheric water vapor is located.

2. What is the average height of the troposphere?

The average height of the troposphere is about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) at the poles and 18 to 20 kilometers (11 to 12 miles) at the equator.

3. What percentage of the total mass of the atmosphere is contained in the troposphere?

About 75% of the total mass of the atmosphere is contained in the troposphere.

4. How do temperatures generally change with altitude in the troposphere?

Temperatures generally decrease with altitude in the troposphere.

5. Why is the troposphere important for weather events?

The troposphere is where clouds, precipitation, and most weather events take place.

[Troposphere] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Earth's AtmosphereScience • Sixth Grade