Session Objectives

Session 1: Composition and Vertical Structure of the Atmosphere

Upon completion of this session, a participant should be able to do the following:
  1. Explain the difference between "permanent" and "variable" atmospheric gases.

  2. Name and rank the three most abundant "permanent" atmospheric gases (percent by volume of dry air).

  3. Name the most variable gas in the atmosphere and state the range in which it normally varies (percent by volume of dry air), and discuss its significance.

  4. Name the two pollutants the term NOx collectively refers, list their effects as pollutants, and name a source of each .

  5. In addition to the NOx's, name several of the major pollutants in the atmosphere, list their anthropogenic and natural sources when applicable, and list their effects.

  6. Define the term aerosol and list several anthropogenic and natural sources of aerosols.

  7. Contrast the effects of the presence of ozone in the lower troposphere with the effects of its presence in the stratosphere.

  8. Given a diagram of the atmosphere, label the layers appropriately, and list the major characteristics of each.

On to Session 1 Assessment


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