It's important to note that the atmosphere isn't just one layer, but rather a series of layers with different properties. These layers are:
* Troposphere: The lowest layer, where weather occurs and most of the atmosphere's mass is located.
* Stratosphere: Contains the ozone layer, which absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.
* Mesosphere: Protects Earth from meteoroids.
* Thermosphere: Extremely hot due to absorption of solar radiation.
* Exosphere: The outermost layer, where the atmosphere gradually fades into space.
While each layer has different characteristics, they all contribute to the atmosphere's overall function of protecting life on Earth.