GCSE Physics (AQA)

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The Atmosphere

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Forces Pressure and pressure differences in fluids

The Atmosphere

1:57 Applying Fluid Pressure
Spec 4.5.5.2
Previous Pressure from a Fluid Next Gravitational Potential Energy
  • The atmosphere is a thin layer of air around the Earth's surface.
  • Air is a mix of nitrogen, oxygen, and other gases.
  • The atmosphere is the result of gas particles being held close to the Earth's surface by its gravitational field.
  • A gravitational field is generated by an object's mass, pulling other mass to the center.
  • There is a large concentration of air particles close to the Earth's surface due to gravity.
  • Other planets don't have the right conditions to maintain an atmosphere, so air escapes or is absorbed.
  • Air particles are less concentrated further from the Earth where the gravitational field is weaker.
  • A gravitational field becomes weaker the further we are from the center, resulting in fewer air particles.
  • There is less air further from the center as gravity is weaker, making it harder to keep air in the atmosphere.
  • It becomes harder to breathe when climbing mountains due to less concentrated air particles.
  • Climbers may need an air supply at high altitudes.
  • For exams, it's important to explain the Earth's atmosphere and how air molecule density changes with height.

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