Structure of the Atmosphere

Provided by: King's Centre for Visualization in Science |Published on: June 6, 2022

Activity - Classroom

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Scientist Reviewed ↗

Synopsis

This interactive animation explains the composition, density, and temperature of the different regions of the atmosphere.
By moving an animated weather balloon, students can explore each region in more detail.

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Subjects: Chemistry, Earth and Space Sciences

Authors:

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

This animated website is interactive and self-paced, which allows students to discover information about the atmosphere by themselves.
The animation provides text and visuals to support learning.

Additional Prerequisites

The interactive media introduces students to vocabulary they may not yet be familiar with, including the regions of the atmosphere: the Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, and Thermosphere.
The explanations provided can sometimes be complex and may require some extra instruction. For example, teachers may need to spend more time discussing why the temperature changes as you move up or down in the atmosphere.

Differentiation

This resource can be used by students in science classes learning about the Earth's atmosphere as part of an investigation of Earth's systems.
Teachers can connect this resource to climate change by discussing how increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases can impact the temperature, density, and other features of the atmosphere.
To aid students when using this resource, consider creating a graphic organizer that students can use to take notes as they read and explore.
Other related resources include this video about the hydrosphere and atmosphere, this video about the structure of Earth's atmosphere, and this lab activity investigating the greenhouse effect.

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About the Partner Provider

King's Centre for Visualization in Science

The King's Centre for Visualization in Science is a research center committed to improving the global public understanding of science through research and the creation and dissemination of peer-reviewed interactive electronic learning tools to see and understand science.

Scientist Reviewed

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.

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Structure of the Atmosphere

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

About the Partner Provider

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources