Layers of the atmosphere

troposphere

The atmospheric layer closest to the earth's surface, where nearly all weather takes place.

stratosphere

The layer of the atmosphere that extends upward from the troposphere and contains the ozone layer.

mesosphere

The coldest layer of the atmosphere that extends upward from the stratosphere; it's where meteors usually burn up.

thermosphere

The atmospheric layer above the mesosphere where the temperature rises again.

ionosphere

Layer found in the lower region of the thermosphere; in this layer solar rays are absorbed by atmospheric gases which cause atoms to lose electrons and produce ions.

ozone layer

The layer in the statosphere which absorbs suns radiation.

exosphere

The upper most layer of the atmosphere; it extends for thousands of kilometers above the earth.

altitude

The height above the earth's surface.

atmosphere

The layer of gases that surround the earth.

prevailing westerly

Wind generally the polar easterlies and trade winds.