- The composition of the Earth’s atmosphere changes with altitude.
- The major constituents of the Earth’s atmosphere are −
- Nitrogen – 78.09%
- Oxygen – 20.95%
- Argon – 0.93%
- Carbon Dioxide – 0.039% (remaining other gasses)
- The pressure exerted by the weight of air at a given point is known as “Atmospheric Pressure” or “Barometric Pressure.”
- With increasing altitude, the atmospheric pressure decreases.
- On average, a column of air (which is normally one square centimeter in cross-section), measured at sea level, has a weight of about 1.03 kg (about 10.1 N).
- The Average Air Pressure is about 14.70 pounds per square inch, (equivalent to 1,013.25 × 103 dynes per square centimeter or 1,013.25 millibars) at sea level.
- A visible mass of condensed vapor floating above the general level of the ground is known as Cloud.
- Based on the altitude, cloud is classified as −
- High Altitude Cloud: For example, Cirrus, Cirrocumulus, & Cirrostratus.
- Middle Altitude Cloud: For example, Altostratus and Altocumulus.
- Low Altitude Cloud: Stratus, Stratocumulus, Cumulus, and Nimbostratus (it can be also seen in the middle altitude).
- Vertical: Cumulonimbus