Question

which statement correctly describes the mesosphere? (1 point)
○ the northern lights are visible in this layer.
○ atmospheric changes in this layer cause weather at earth’s surface.
○ commercial airplanes fly through this layer.
○ meteors burn up in this layer to create shooting stars.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the first option: The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) occur in the thermosphere, not the mesosphere. So this option is incorrect.
2. Analyze the second option: Weather at Earth's surface is caused by changes in the troposphere, not the mesosphere. So this option is incorrect.
3. Analyze the third option: Commercial airplanes fly in the stratosphere (and sometimes the troposphere), not the mesosphere. So this option is incorrect.
4. Analyze the fourth option: Meteors (meteoroids) enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up in the mesosphere, creating the appearance of shooting stars. This is a correct description of the mesosphere.

Answer:

D. Meteors burn up in this layer to create shooting stars.