Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Science Source/Photo Researchers
A profile of the atmosphere can be seen in this sunset image taken from the space shuttle. The deep red band near the
horizon is probably caused by smoke from biomass burning at the surface. The purple layer marks the tropopause, which
contains a layer of dust at an altitude of 14 km (~8.7 mi). Above the tropopause is the stratosphere, which appears pale in
this image.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
CHAPTER PREVIEW
1.
Compare and contrast the various layers of the
atmosphere and the vertical change in temperature
that occurs within them.
2.
Describe the way that the various large-scale factors
influence surface air temperature on Earth.
3.
Explain the character of maritime and continental
climates and why they differ from each other.
4.
Discuss the urban heat island effect and how human
interactions in these environments influence air
temperature.
Layered Structure of the Atmosphere
Surface and Air Temperatures
Surface Temperature
Maritime vs. Continental Effect
Global Temperature Patterns
Human Interactions: Urban Heat Islands
Temperature and Location
