1-2: Evolution of the Earth's Atmosphere

1-2: En Español 1-2: Em Português
© Eugene S. Takle, 2002, 2005, 2006

GOAL:

To use some basic physics to help us understand the long-term characteristics of the atmosphere: why the atmosphere is what it is, how it got that way, and what is necessary to make significant changes in its structure and composition. NASA has provided some supplemental information on this topic.

Escape Velocity

Albedo

Probable Velocity

Total Atmospheric Mass

Surface Pressure

Four Stages of the Earth's Atmosphere

Determining the Temperature of a Planet

Gas Concentrations

Distribution of Temperature

Oxygen and Ozone