Titan’s atmosphere

Definition

Titan's atmosphere is the thick, nitrogen-rich gaseous envelope surrounding Saturn's largest moon, Titan. It is notable for its complex chemical processes and potential for prebiotic conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Titan's atmosphere is primarily composed of nitrogen (about 95%) with methane and hydrogen as minor components.
2. It has a surface pressure about 1.5 times that of Earth's atmosphere.
3. The dense atmosphere creates a greenhouse effect, keeping the surface relatively warm at around -179 degrees Celsius (-290 degrees Fahrenheit).
4. Photochemical reactions in the upper atmosphere produce organic compounds, leading to a thick haze layer.
5. Titan’s atmosphere has weather phenomena including methane rain that forms rivers and lakes on its surface.

Review Questions

• What are the primary components of Titan's atmosphere?
• How does the pressure of Titan's atmosphere compare to Earth's?
• What role do photochemical reactions play in Titan’s atmospheric composition?

Related terms

Nitrogen: A colorless, odorless gas that makes up most of Earth's atmosphere and is also the primary component of Titan's atmosphere.

Methane: A hydrocarbon gas present in small amounts in Titan’s atmosphere, playing a crucial role in its weather and climate processes.

Organic Compounds: Chemical compounds containing carbon, produced through photochemical reactions in Titan’s upper atmosphere.