Chapter 8 Atmosphere
Published on Nov 18, 2015
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
CIRCULATION OF THE ATMOSPHERE
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Atmosphere and Ocean
Earth's Atmosphere and ocean are intertwined, the gases and waters freely exchange. Gases entering the atmosphere from the ocean have important effects on climate, and gases entering the ocean from the atmosphere can influence sediment deposition, the distribution of life, and some of the physical characteristics of the seawater itself.
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Composition and properties of the atmosphere
The lower atmosphere is a nearly homogenous mixture of gases, mostly nitrogen (78.1%) and oxygen (20.9%). Other elements and compounds make up less than 1% of its composition. Air is never completely dry; water vapor, the gaseous form of water, can occupy as much as 4% of its volume.
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Components of the Atmosphere
Warm air is less dense than cold air and moist air is less dense than dry air. Ascending air cools as it expands. Cooler air can hold less water, so water vapor condenses into tiny droplets. Descending air warms as it compresses.
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Air pressure, the weight of the air from earth's surface to the top of the atmosphere, affects the density of air.
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Components of the Atmosphere (Cont.)
Low pressure zone (L) is where air density is lower than in surrounding areas because the air is warmer or has a higher moisture content.
High pressure zone (H) is where air pressure is higher than in surrounding area because of cooling or lower moisture content.
Fluids (air and water) flow from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.
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