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General Knowledge - Atmosphere
The composition of the Earths atmosphere changes with the altitude.
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The major constituents of the Earths atmosphere are −
Nitrogen 78.09%
Oxygen 20.95%
Argon 0.93%
Carbon Dioxide 0.039% (remaining other gasses)
The pressure exerted by the weight of air at a given point is known as Atmospheric Pressure or Barometric Pressure.
With increasing altitude, the atmospheric pressure decreases.
On an average, a column of air (which is normally one square centimeter in cross-section), measured at the sea level, has the weight of about 1.03 kg (about 10.1 N).
The Average Air Pressure is about 14.70 pounds per square inch, (equivalent to 1,013.25 103 dynes per square centimeter or 1,013.25 millibars) at the sea level.
A visible mass of condensed vapor floating above the general level of the ground is known as Cloud.
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Based on the altitude, cloud is classified as −
High Altitude Cloud: For example, Cirrus, Cirrocumulus, & Cirrostratus.
Middle Altitude Cloud: For example, Altostratus and Altocumulus.
Low Altitude Cloud: Stratus, Stratocumulus, Cumulus, and Nimbostratus (it can be also seen in the middle altitude).
Vertical: Cumulonimbus
