Atmospheric basics
Moles
- Moles ←→ Grams we used the molecular weight/formula weight from the periodic table
- Moles ←→ Molecules/Atoms
- We used Avagadro’s number: 6.02 x 1023 particles per one mole
- Particles include atoms and molecules
Structure of the Atmosphere
- The atmosphere is divided into four layers:
- Troposphere
- The lowest layer
is where most of the
weather occurs. - Stratosphere
- Mesosphere
- Thermosphere
Composition of the Atmosphere
- Mainly composed of the following gases:
- N2
- O2
- CO2
- Ar
Temperature scales
- A temperature of zero on the Fahrenheit scale is the temperature of a mixture of equal parts ice, water, and salt.
- The freezing point of water is what sets the zero point on the Celsius (centigrade) scale.
- The point at which all particle motion stops is defined as zero on the Kelvin scale.
We use Kelvin as a scale for laws because the kelvin scale starts at absolute zero ( Where all motion cases and entropy is zero)
Air pressure
- Is caused by the weight of the atmosphere.
- Above each square inch of Earth’s surface is a column of air the weighs 14.7 pounds.
measuring air pressure
- A barometer is an instrument used to measure air pressure using the dense liquid metal mercury.
- Units of Pressure:
- mmHg
- torr
- atm