Carruthers Atmospheric Layers Animation

Earth’s atmosphere is divided into five main layers, differentiated by factors such as temperature, chemical composition, and air density. The troposphere is the lowest layer, extending from Earth's surface up to about 10 miles above it, and is where almost all weather phenomena occur.

Above the troposphere is the stratosphere, which reaches up to around 31 miles. It contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun.

Next is the mesosphere, which extends from about 31 to 53 miles above Earth. It is the coldest layer of the atmosphere, and it is where most meteors burn up upon entering.

Above the mesosphere is the thermosphere, ranging from about 53 to 375 miles above Earth. Known as the upper atmosphere, this region contains the ionosphere, a region filled with charged particles that enable radio communications and where auroras often occur.

The outermost layer is the exosphere, which gradually transitions into outer space. It is extremely thin and composed mainly of hydrogen and helium.

Together, these layers form a protective shield that regulates Earth’s energy balance and helps sustain life.