Topic 6.1 introduces atmospheric structure, composition, and the processes that drive weather and climate. Students study the layers of the atmosphere, solar radiation, albedo, and the natural greenhouse effect — foundational concepts for understanding climate change in IB ESS.
Key Idea: Topic 6.1 covers how the atmosphere is structured, why it supports life, how Earth’s energy budget works (short-wave in, long-wave out), and the role of the natural greenhouse effect and albedo in regulating temperature.
Short-wave = incoming from Sun. Long-wave = outgoing heat from Earth.
ESS is assessed through Paper 1 (case study) and Paper 2 (short answer & structured questions). Concepts from this topic may appear in either paper, often combined with data analysis or real-world examples.
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Start studying freeTopic 6.1 Introduction to the atmosphere forms a core part of Unit 6: Atmosphere and Climate Change in IB ESS. Mastering these concepts will strengthen your understanding of connected topics across the syllabus and prepare you for exam questions that require analysis, evaluation, and real-world application.
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