SAQ : What are the subdivisions of the atmosphere?

Question

What are the subdivisions of the atmosphere?

Answer

The atmosphere is divided into five main subdivisions or layers, based on differences in temperature and other physical properties. These layers, listed from the surface of the Earth upward, are:

1. Troposphere: This is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth’s surface to an average height of about 7 to 20 kilometres (4 to 12 miles) depending on the location.
2. Stratosphere: This layer extends from the top of the troposphere up to an average height of about 50 kilometres (31 miles).
3. Mesosphere: This layer extends from the top of the stratosphere up to an average height of about 85 kilometres (53 miles).
4. Thermosphere: This layer extends from the top of the mesosphere up to an altitude of about 600 kilometres (373 miles).
5. Exosphere: This is the outermost layer of the atmosphere, extending from the top of the thermosphere up to an altitude of about 10,000 kilometres (6,200 miles) or more.