What are the layers of the atmosphere in order of altitude?

The layers of the atmosphere in order of altitude are the Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere, and Exosphere.

The Earth's atmosphere is divided into five main layers based on temperature variations. These layers are the Troposphere, Strosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere, and Exosphere. Each layer has unique characteristics and plays a different role in our planet's climate and weather patterns.

The Troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to about 8 to 15 kilometres. This layer is where all weather phenomena occur, and it contains about 75% of the atmosphere's mass and 99% of its water vapour. The temperature in the Troposphere decreases with altitude, making it cooler the higher you go.

Above the Troposphere is the Stratosphere, which extends from about 15 to 50 kilometres above the Earth's surface. The Stratosphere is home to the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters the solar ultraviolet radiation. Unlike the Troposphere, the temperature in the Stratosphere increases with altitude due to the absorption of radiation by the ozone layer.

The Mesosphere is the third layer of the atmosphere, extending from about 50 to 85 kilometres above the Earth's surface. The temperature in the Mesosphere decreases with altitude, and it is the layer where most meteors burn up upon atmospheric entrance. It's also the coldest place on Earth with temperatures dropping as low as -90°C.

Above the Mesosphere is the Thermosphere, which extends from about 85 to 600 kilometres above the Earth's surface. The temperature in the Thermosphere increases with altitude, reaching as high as 1500°C. However, despite the high temperatures, this layer would feel cold to us because of the low air pressure.

The Exosphere is the outermost layer of the atmosphere, extending from the top of the Thermosphere up to 10,000 kilometres. This layer is mainly composed of light gases such as hydrogen and helium. The Exosphere gradually fades into the vacuum of space.