õhukihid

Õhukihid refers to the layers of the Earth's atmosphere. These layers are distinguished by variations in temperature, pressure, and composition. The lowest layer, the troposphere, extends from the Earth's surface up to about 7 to 20 kilometers. This is where most weather phenomena occur, and temperature generally decreases with altitude.

Above the troposphere is the stratosphere, reaching up to about 50 kilometers. The stratosphere is characterized by an increase in temperature with altitude due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Following the stratosphere is the mesosphere, extending to around 80 kilometers. Temperatures in the mesosphere decrease with altitude, making it the coldest region of the atmosphere.

The thermosphere lies above the mesosphere and extends to about 600 to 1000 kilometers. Temperatures here can be very high due to absorption of solar radiation, although the air is extremely thin, meaning it would not feel hot to a human. The International Space Station orbits within the thermosphere. Finally, the exosphere is the outermost layer, gradually fading into outer space. It begins at the top of the thermosphere and has no clear upper boundary. Satellites often orbit in this region. The distinct properties of each õhukihid play crucial roles in phenomena ranging from weather patterns and climate regulation to the protection of life on Earth.