Final answer:
The four primary layers of Earth's atmosphere from bottom to top are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere, with the exosphere being the outermost layer. Each layer has unique characteristics and plays a significant role in protecting the planet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four layers of the atmosphere from bottom to top are the troposphere, the stratosphere, the mesosphere, and the thermosphere. Note that there is also a fifth layer, the exosphere, which is often mentioned as the outermost layer of Earth's atmosphere. The layers of the atmosphere protect Earth from the sun's radiation, with the ozone layer residing mostly in the stratosphere. As altitude increases, the composition and temperature of each layer vary significantly.
- The troposphere is the layer where most of our weather occurs and contains roughly 80% of Earth's atmosphere by mass.
- The stratosphere is the second layer, which is home to the ozone layer protecting us from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
- The third layer, the mesosphere, is where most meteors burn up upon entering Earth's atmosphere.
- The thermosphere is an expansive layer characterized by a significant increase in temperature with height.
- Lastly, the exosphere is the farthest layer from Earth's surface and where the atmosphere thins out into space.