The five main layers are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. Mainly, temperature determines the altitude of these layers.

Earth's atmosphere is composed of a series of layers, each with its own specific traits. Moving upward from ground level, these layers are called the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. The exosphere gradually fades away into the realm of interplanetary space.

Our planet earth has 5 layers of the atmosphere. So, the earth’s five layers of the atmosphere in order are Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere, and Exosphere. The Earth’s five layers are organized like an onion’s skin.

Thanks to these studies, we now know the five layers of the atmosphere are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere and exosphere (see graphic). Together, these layers protect us from the sun’s harmful radiation and keep temperatures on Earth habitable for all living beings.