---
title: "Troposphere — AP Environmental Science Definition"
description: "The troposphere is the lowest atmospheric layer (0-15 km) where weather and the greenhouse effect happen. Key for AP Enviro Unit 9 climate change questions."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/troposphere"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Troposphere — AP Environmental Science Definition

## Definition

The troposphere is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere where weather occurs. It extends from the Earth's surface up to about 8-15 kilometers (5-9 miles) in altitude.

## Related Study Guides

- [9.4 Increases in the Greenhouse Gases](/ap-enviro/unit-9/increases-greenhouse-gases/study-guide/xy8sIvBYMxVP54em0thk)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Stratosphere](/ap-enviro/key-terms/stratosphere): The layer of Earth's atmosphere above the troposphere where the ozone layer is located.
- Weather: The short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific area, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and air pressure.
- [Air Pollution](/ap-enviro/key-terms/air-pollution): The presence of harmful substances in the air due to human activities or natural processes that can negatively impact human health and ecosystems.