Independent Assessment 2: Atmosphere Crossword Puzzle
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
✅ Crossword Puzzle Answers (Sample Key)
Across
3. Ozone – Gas that absorbs UV radiation
5. Troposphere – The lowest layer of the atmosphere
7. CarbonDioxide – A greenhouse gas emitted by burning fossil fuels
9. Stratosphere – Layer above the troposphere
11. Weather – Condition of the atmosphere at a specific time and place
13. Mesosphere – The coldest atmospheric layer
15. Nitrogen – Most abundant gas in the atmosphere
Down
- Atmosphere – The envelope of gases surrounding Earth
- Oxygen – Gas essential for human respiration
- Thermosphere – Atmospheric layer with auroras
- Exosphere – The outermost layer of the atmosphere
- Pressure – Force exerted by the weight of air
- Humidity – Amount of water vapor in the air
- Altitude – Height above sea level
- Radiation – Transfer of energy from the sun to Earth
🧠 Explanation
Earth’s atmosphere is a complex layer of gases that surrounds our planet and supports life. It is divided into five main layers based on temperature changes. Starting from the surface, these layers are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. Most weather phenomena occur in the troposphere, where we live. The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which protects life by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
The mesosphere lies above the stratosphere and is known for being the coldest layer, while the thermosphere experiences very high temperatures and is the region where the auroras form. The exosphere is the outermost layer, gradually transitioning into space.
The atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen and oxygen, with smaller amounts of other gases like carbon dioxide, argon, and water vapor. Oxygen is essential for most life forms, while carbon dioxide, although present in small amounts, plays a major role in regulating Earth’s temperature through the greenhouse effect.
Weather and climate are heavily influenced by atmospheric conditions such as temperature, pressure, and humidity. Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor in the air and affects precipitation and cloud formation. Atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude and is an important factor in weather prediction.
Solar radiation drives the energy cycle of the atmosphere, heating Earth’s surface and causing air movement. These movements, in turn, create wind patterns and influence global climate. Understanding the atmosphere is crucial for studying environmental issues, weather forecasting, and climate change.
Overall, the atmosphere acts as a protective shield and climate regulator, making Earth a habitable planet. Studying its layers, composition, and behavior helps scientists predict weather, understand climate systems, and prepare for environmental challenges.
