Question

Consider the following statements:

1. The exosphere merges gradually into outer space.

2. This layer has the highest density in the atmosphere.

Which of the above is/are correct?

• A. 1 only
• B. 2 only
• C. Both 1 and 2
• D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

• Correct Answer: Option A) 1 only

• The exosphere is the outermost layer of Earth's atmosphere, extending from approximately 500-600 km above sea level and gradually merging into outer space. Let's analyze each statement:

• Statement 1: The exosphere merges gradually into outer space - This is correct. The exosphere is characterized by extremely low atmospheric density where gas molecules can escape Earth's gravitational pull. There is no distinct boundary between the exosphere and outer space; instead, it gradually transitions into the vacuum of space.

• Statement 2: This layer has the highest density in the atmosphere- This is incorrect. The exosphere actually has the lowest density in the atmosphere, not the highest. The atmospheric layers in order of decreasing density from bottom to top are: Troposphere (highest density), Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere, and Exosphere (lowest density). At the exosphere level, air molecules are so sparse that they rarely collide with each other.