What keeps the atmosphere of a planet in place?

Thread starter oscar_lai_hk
Start date Nov 29, 2007
Tags

Atmosphere Planet

In summary, the atmosphere is primarily made up of nitrogen and oxygen, with small amounts of other gases. It is held in place by the Earth's gravity and protected by the magnetic field from solar winds. However, the atmosphere can be lost through various processes such as solar wind stripping and chemical reactions. Temperature also affects the atmosphere by causing gases to expand and influencing weather patterns.

Nov 29, 2007

oscar_lai_hk

What keeps the atmosphere of a planet in place? THZ

Space news on Phys.org

Nov 29, 2007

russ_watters

Mentor

Gravity.

Nov 29, 2007

Integral

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Gold Member

Note that the temperature of our atmosphere high enough that the average velocity of the lighter gases, Hydrogen and helium, is greater then the Earth's escape velocity. Thus we do not find them in our atmosphere.

1. What is the atmosphere made of?

The atmosphere is made up of a mixture of gases, primarily nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%). Other gases such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and trace amounts of other gases also make up the atmosphere.

2. How does the atmosphere stay in place?

The atmosphere is held in place by the force of gravity. The Earth's gravity pulls the gases towards the surface and keeps them from escaping into space.

3. What role do the Earth's magnetic field play in keeping the atmosphere in place?

The Earth's magnetic field helps to protect the atmosphere from being stripped away by solar winds. It also plays a role in shaping the atmosphere by trapping charged particles and creating the auroras.

4. Can the atmosphere of a planet be lost?

Yes, the atmosphere of a planet can be lost. This can happen through processes such as solar wind stripping, volcanic activity, and chemical reactions that remove gases from the atmosphere.

5. How does the temperature affect the atmosphere?

The temperature of a planet can affect the atmosphere in several ways. For example, higher temperatures can cause gases to expand and rise, creating convection currents. Temperature also plays a role in the formation and behavior of weather systems in the atmosphere.