Final answer:
The Earth's atmosphere has four layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere. Each layer has different characteristics and extends to different altitudes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Earth's atmosphere is divided into four main layers: the troposphere, the stratosphere, the mesosphere, and the thermosphere.
Troposphere
The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere and extends from the Earth's surface up to about 7-20 kilometers (4-12 miles). This is where weather occurs and where most of Earth's air mass is contained. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude in the troposphere.
Stratosphere
The stratosphere is located just above the troposphere and extends from about 20-50 kilometers (12-31 miles) above the Earth's surface. This is where the ozone layer is located, which helps absorb harmful UV radiation from the Sun. The temperature increases with increasing altitude in the stratosphere.
Mesosphere
The mesosphere is above the stratosphere and extends from about 50-85 kilometers (31-53 miles) above the Earth's surface. This is the layer where meteors burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude in the mesosphere.
Thermosphere
The thermosphere is the outermost layer of the atmosphere that extends from about 85 kilometers (53 miles) above the Earth's surface to the edge of space. This layer is characterized by high temperatures and is where the Northern and Southern Lights (auroras) occur.