Layers of the Atmosphere

The Earth's atmosphere is divided into layers based on temperature and composition. Starting from the surface, the troposphere is where weather occurs and planes fly; it gets colder with height. Above it is the stratosphere, which contains the ozone layer that shields us from harmful UV rays. Next is the mesosphere, where temperatures drop again, and meteors burn up. Above that is the thermosphere, which heats up and is where auroras occur. Finally, the exosphere is the outermost layer, gradually merging with space, with extremely thin particles. These layers protect life, climate, and enable communication.