Atmosphere Modeling: If G Doubles, How Tall?

[abelthayil]

If g (acceleration due to gravity) was double on Earth, how tall would our atmosphere be?

 

[dauto]

Assuming no change in the total atmospheric mass or temperature, the Atmosphere would be half as thick.

 

[klimatos]

Actually, most atmospheric scientists give no thought to how high the atmosphere might be. The assumption is that it grades imperceptibly into outer space, with no fixed interface. It does not appear to be a question whose answer would have any practical value.

Or, we might treat it like the old riddle, "How long is a piece of string?"

The correct answer is, "Twice the distance from the middle to one end!"

 

[olivermsun]

Actually, most atmospheric scientists give no thought to how high the atmosphere might be. The assumption is that it grades imperceptibly into outer space, with no fixed interface. It does not appear to be a question whose answer would have any practical value.

The "scale height" is useful, though, along with other concepts related to the OP's question such as the top of the tropopause.

 

[PJC01]

If the acceleration due to gravity on Earth were to double, it would have a significant impact on the height of our atmosphere. This is because the height of the atmosphere is determined by the balance between the downward force of gravity and the upward force of air pressure. With a higher g value, the downward force of gravity would increase, pulling the atmosphere closer to the surface of the Earth.

Currently, the height of the atmosphere is approximately 100 km (62 miles) above the Earth's surface. If g were to double, the atmosphere would likely collapse to a much lower altitude, possibly as low as 50 km (31 miles). This is because the increased gravitational force would compress the air molecules closer to the surface, resulting in a denser atmosphere.

This change in atmospheric height would have significant consequences for life on Earth. The lower altitude of the atmosphere would lead to higher air pressure, making it difficult for organisms adapted to the current pressure to survive. Additionally, the increased density of the atmosphere would trap more heat, leading to higher temperatures at the surface of the Earth.

In conclusion, if g were to double, the atmosphere on Earth would likely be compressed to a lower altitude, resulting in higher air pressure and temperatures. This would have a significant impact on the environment and the survival of living organisms.