Calculating the mass of the earth's atmosphere

In summary, the mass of the earth's atmosphere is calculated by determining the density of air at different altitudes and multiplying it by the volume of the atmosphere. The current estimate for this mass is approximately 5.1480×10^18 kilograms, which is relatively small compared to the total mass of the earth. Factors such as air density variability, measurement accuracy, and data uncertainties can affect the accuracy of this calculation. It is important to know the mass of the earth's atmosphere for understanding climate and weather patterns, studying its composition and dynamics, and predicting the impact of human activities on the environment.
  • #1
dawn_pingpong
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Homework Statement


Given that the radius of the Earth is 6.4 x 10^6 m, the total mass of the Earth's atmosphere is approximately________kg?

Choices:
a) 5 E16
b) 1 E18
c)5 E18
d)1 E20
e) 5 E9

Homework Equations



What is the depth of the Earth's atmosphere? What is the density?

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
You don't need to know the depth of the Earth's atmosphere to answer this question, or it's density. What is the pressure at sea level? Pressure is what divided by what?
 
  • #3
OHHH okay. PA=F. Then can find mass. (divide by g) YAY thank you!
 

Related to Calculating the mass of the earth's atmosphere

1. How is the mass of the earth's atmosphere calculated?

The mass of the earth's atmosphere is calculated by determining the density of the air at different altitudes and multiplying it by the volume of the atmosphere. This can be done using various scientific instruments and mathematical equations.

2. What is the current estimate for the mass of the earth's atmosphere?

The current estimate for the mass of the earth's atmosphere is approximately 5.1480×10^18 kilograms. This value may vary slightly depending on the methods and data used for calculation.

3. How does the mass of the earth's atmosphere compare to the mass of the earth?

The mass of the earth's atmosphere is relatively small compared to the mass of the earth. It makes up only about 0.00001% of the total mass of the planet.

4. What factors can affect the accuracy of calculating the mass of the earth's atmosphere?

The accuracy of calculating the mass of the earth's atmosphere can be affected by various factors, such as the variability of air density at different altitudes, the accuracy of measurement instruments, and uncertainties in the data used for calculation.

5. Why is it important to know the mass of the earth's atmosphere?

Knowing the mass of the earth's atmosphere is important for various reasons, such as understanding the planet's climate and weather patterns, studying the composition and dynamics of the atmosphere, and predicting the effects of human activities on the environment.

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