Key Concepts

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Sunset with dense cirrus clouds, courtesy of NOAA Photo Library, Photo by Grant W. Goodge

Ch. 16: Atmosphere: Composition, Structure, and Temperature

After reading and studying Ch. 16, you should be able to:

Concept 1: Understand the importance of our atmosphere and compare and contrast weather and climate.

Concept 2: Describe the physical and chemical features of the atmosphere including variations in composition, pressure, and thermal structure.

Concept 3: Explain the causes of the seasons.

Concept 4: Compare and contrast the definitions and properties concerning energy, light, heat, and temperature.

Concept 5: Discuss the controls on temperature that contribute to temperature variation locally and globally.

To evaluate and reinforce your understanding of any or all of the Key Concepts, look at the selection bar on the left side of this page. Select and click on the corresponding Concept Quiz or Chapter Test and answer the questions provided.

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