Question

27. Troposphere is extended up to 6-20 km altitude from the earth's surface but the amount of oxygen is less at higher altitudes, i.e., on mountains or hill tops. Justify.

Answer 1

• The troposphere is the layer that extends up to 6-20 km height from the earth's surface.
• The vapor density of oxygen $\left({\mathrm{O}}_2\right)$ is greater than that of air so the amount of oxygen decreases as we move to higher altitudes.
• The air becomes less compressed and become thinner at higher altitudes.
• This leads to decrease in overall pressure of air due to which the amount of oxygen also decreases.
• Therefore, the amount of oxygen is less at higher altitudes, i.e., on mountains or hilltops.