2.The-Atmosphere-A-Key-Component-of-Environmental-Science.pptx

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1. The Atmosphere: A Key Component of Environmental Science

2. Introduction to the Atmosphere The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding Earth It plays a crucial role in supporting life and regulating climate Composed of several layers: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere

3. Composition of the Atmosphere Primary gases: 1. Nitrogen (78%) 2. Oxygen (21%) 3. Argon (0.93%) Trace gases: Carbon dioxide, water vapor, and others

4. The Troposphere: Where Weather Happens Lowest layer of the atmosphere (0-10 km altitude) Contains 75-80% of the atmosphere's mass Site of most weather phenomena Temperature decreases with altitude in this layer

5. The Ozone Layer: Earth's Sunscreen Located in the stratosphere (10-50 km altitude) Absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun Protects life on Earth from damaging effects of UV radiation Depletion of the ozone layer is a major environmental concern

6. Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere Natural greenhouse effect keeps Earth warm enough for life Enhanced greenhouse effect leads to global warming Major greenhouse gases: CO2, methane, water vapor

7. Air Pollution: Threats to Atmospheric Health Sources of air pollution: industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, burning of fossil fuels Common pollutants: particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides Health effects: respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems Environmental impacts: acid rain, smog, ozone depletion

8. Atmospheric Circulation: Global Wind Patterns Driven by uneven heating of Earth's surface by the sun Major circulation patterns: Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar cells Influences climate, weather, and ocean currents Trade winds, westerlies, and polar easterlies

9. The Atmosphere and the Water Cycle Atmosphere plays a crucial role in the water cycle Evaporation, condensation, and precipitation Clouds and atmospheric moisture Importance for climate regulation and freshwater distribution

10. Studying the Atmosphere: Tools and Techniques Weather stations and radiosondes (weather balloons) Satellite imagery and remote sensing Computer modeling and climate simulations Importance of long-term data collection and analysis

11. Protecting the Atmosphere: Global Efforts International agreements: Montreal Protocol, Paris Agreement Reducing greenhouse gas emissions Promoting clean energy and sustainable practices Individual actions: energy conservation, sustainable transportation