The Earth's atmosphere is critical to the processes that govern weather and climate, and is especially important to sustaining life. The notable layers of the atmosphere include the troposphere, where...The Earth's atmosphere is critical to the processes that govern weather and climate, and is especially important to sustaining life. The notable layers of the atmosphere include the troposphere, where weather phenomena occur, and the stratosphere, which houses the ozone layer. The Earth's relationship with the Sun, including the planet's tilt, rotation, and orbit determine seasonal changes and influence global weather patterns.