Final answer:
The Earth's atmosphere consists of layers including the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, each with defining characteristics such as temperature gradients and composition. The troposphere is where most weather happens and has a decreasing temperature with altitude.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Atmospheric Layers
The Earth's atmosphere is divided into several layers, each defined by unique temperature gradients and compositions. The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to about 11-13 km (7-8 miles).
The most important characteristic of the troposphere is that it is where most of the Earth's weather occurs, and within this layer, the temperature decreases with increasing altitude. Water-based clouds are primarily formed within this layer as well.
Above the troposphere is the stratosphere, recognized for containing the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation. Following this layer are the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, with the thermosphere being the largest in volume. These upper layers contain less dense gases and experience different temperature variations compared to the lower atmosphere.