Questions: What effects does ionizing radiation have on the atmosphere? Select the two correct answers. (1 point) It ionizes atoms and molecules in the thermosphere. It helps atoms to escape Earth's gravity in the exosphere. It is the chief cause of warming in the troposphere. It forms ozone in the stratosphere.

Solution Steps

• Ionizing radiation has the ability to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions. This process is significant in the upper layers of the atmosphere.

• Option 1: "It ionizes atoms and molecules in the thermosphere."

  • The thermosphere is known for its high levels of ionization due to solar radiation, making this statement correct.

• Option 2: "It helps atoms to escape Earth's gravity in the exosphere."

  • While the exosphere is the outermost layer where atoms can escape into space, ionizing radiation primarily affects ionization rather than directly aiding in escape.

• Option 3: "It is the chief cause of warming in the troposphere."

  • The troposphere is primarily warmed by the greenhouse effect and not by ionizing radiation, making this statement incorrect.

• Option 4: "It forms ozone in the stratosphere."

  • Ionizing radiation, particularly ultraviolet (UV) radiation, plays a role in the formation of ozone in the stratosphere, making this statement correct.

• Based on the analysis, the two correct effects of ionizing radiation on the atmosphere are:
  1. It ionizes atoms and molecules in the thermosphere.
  2. It forms ozone in the stratosphere.

Final Answer