Exosphere: meaning, definitions and examples
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exosphere
[ ɛkˈsɒsfɪr ]
atmospheric layer
The exosphere is the uppermost layer of Earth's atmosphere. It extends from about 600 kilometers (370 miles) above the Earth's surface to about 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles) into space. In this layer, atmospheric particles are so sparse that they can travel hundreds of kilometers without colliding with one another. The exosphere contains the fewest gas molecules and is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. This layer is also the point where Earth's atmosphere transitions into outer space.
Examples of usage
- Satellites operate within the exosphere.
- The exosphere is nearly a vacuum.
- Scientists study the exosphere to understand space weather.
- The transition from the thermosphere to the exosphere is gradual.
Translations
Translations of the word "exosphere" in other languages:
🇵🇹 exosfera
🇮🇳 एक्सोस्फीयर
🇩🇪 Exosphäre
🇮🇩 eksosfer
🇺🇦 екзосфера
🇵🇱 egzosfera
🇯🇵 外気圏
🇫🇷 exosphère
🇪🇸 exosfera
🇹🇷 egzosfer
🇰🇷 외기권
🇸🇦 الطبقة الخارجية
🇨🇿 exosféra
🇸🇰 exosféra
🇨🇳 外气层
🇸🇮 egzosfera
🇮🇸 ytra andrúmsloft
🇰🇿 экзосфера
🇬🇪 ექსოსფერო
🇦🇿 ekzosfer
🇲🇽 exosfera
Etymology
The term 'exosphere' originates from the Greek word 'exo,' meaning 'outside' or 'external,' and 'sphere,' which denotes a round, three-dimensional shape or layer. This word was first used in the early 20th century as scientists began to explore the structure of Earth's atmosphere more thoroughly. The concept of dividing the atmosphere into distinct layers, including the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, emerged from advancements in meteorology and aeronomy. As technology improved, researchers turned their attention to the uppermost regions of the atmosphere, leading to a refined understanding of the exosphere's characteristics. The study of the exosphere has gained importance with the increased presence of satellites and human-made objects in this seemingly infinite region.