Vocabulary Term Details

Atmosphere

Definition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmosphere_of_Earth)

The atmosphere of Earth is a layer of gases surrounding the planet Earth that is retained by Earth's gravity. The atmosphere protects life on Earth by absorbing ultraviolet solar radiation, warming the surface through heat retention (greenhouse effect), and reducing temperature extremes between day and night (the diurnal temperature variation). (Wikipedia)

Preferred Units: N/A

Scope Note:
N/A

Broader TermsNarrower TermsRelated Terms
Earth
Ozone layer
Stratosphere
Troposphere
Air
Air pollution
Atmospheric data
Atmospheric sciences
Climatic factors
Greenhouse effect
Meteorology

This term is used for the following terms: 
Earth atmosphere

Approved Date
21-Dec-2012

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