A question about atmosphere layers

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the classification of atmospheric layers based on temperature and the inclusion of stable temperature regions, referred to as "pauses," in this classification. Participants explore the reasoning behind the current definitions and distinctions of these layers.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why stable temperature regions are not considered distinct atmospheric layers, suggesting that they should be included.
  • Another participant notes that altitude variations in atmospheric layers depend on geographic location, indicating that stable areas may serve as boundary markers between layers.
  • A different participant asserts that stable regions are recognized as tropopause, stratopause, and mesopause, but emphasizes that these are more like separators than additional layers.
  • There is a suggestion that the different processes occurring in various layers justify the distinction between layers and pauses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether stable temperature regions should be classified as additional layers. Some agree that these regions are recognized but see them as separators rather than distinct layers, indicating an unresolved debate.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention that the classification of atmospheric layers can vary based on geographic location, suggesting that definitions may depend on specific conditions or assumptions.

termina
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Hello there!
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Layers of our atmosphere are said to be counted according to their temperature,
then why don't scientists include the places where temperature is stable with altitude (as shown in the picture) as distinct and additionnal atmospheric layers?Thank you
 
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Those altitudes in the picture are only guidelines. It varies from the poles to the equator.

Have you not considered that those stable areas are actually the boundary markers, distinguishing between the levels?
 
termina said:
Hello there!

Layers of our atmosphere are said to be counted according to their temperature,
then why don't scientists include the places where temperature is stable with altitude (as shown in the picture) as distinct and additionnal atmospheric layers?

Thank you

I believe that they do.
There called tropopause, stratopause and mesopause.
Although these are more separators between the layers.

I would assume this is because in the different layers different processes take place and the "pauses" only mark the area where one process shifts into another process, which looks like a stable area, but basically is only a transition from one layer to another.
 
I like Serena said:
I believe that they do.
There called tropopause, stratopause and mesopause.

Correct.
 

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