Stratosphere

Definition

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere and extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers (6 to 31 miles) above sea level. This layer is characterized by a gradual increase in temperature with altitude due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer, which is concentrated in the stratosphere. The stratosphere plays a critical role in weather patterns and climate, as well as protecting life on Earth from harmful solar radiation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stratosphere is home to the ozone layer, which is essential for protecting living organisms from harmful UV radiation emitted by the sun.
2. Unlike the troposphere, where temperature decreases with altitude, the stratosphere experiences a temperature inversion due to ozone absorption of UV radiation.
3. Commercial jet aircraft typically fly in the lower stratosphere, where they experience smoother air and less turbulence compared to flying in the troposphere.
4. Weather balloons are often launched into the stratosphere to collect data on atmospheric conditions and monitor changes in climate.
5. Stratospheric conditions are stable, leading to less weather activity; however, disturbances can occur, such as sudden stratospheric warming events that can impact weather patterns below.

Review Questions

• How does the presence of the ozone layer within the stratosphere affect life on Earth?
  • The ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Without this protective layer in the stratosphere, increased levels of UV radiation would reach the Earth's surface, leading to higher risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans and animals, as well as damaging ecosystems.
• Compare and contrast the temperature profiles and weather phenomena occurring in the troposphere versus the stratosphere.
  • In the troposphere, temperature decreases with altitude, and this layer is where most weather phenomena occur due to rising air currents and moisture. In contrast, the stratosphere features a temperature inversion where temperature increases with altitude due to ozone absorption of UV radiation. While the troposphere is dynamic with frequent weather changes, the stratosphere is generally more stable and has less atmospheric turbulence.
• Evaluate the significance of studying atmospheric layers like the stratosphere in understanding climate change and its broader impacts.
  • Studying atmospheric layers like the stratosphere is vital for understanding climate change because it helps scientists monitor changes in temperature patterns, ozone depletion, and interactions between different layers of the atmosphere. The stability of the stratosphere can influence weather patterns and climate systems at lower altitudes. Additionally, understanding how pollutants affect both the tropospheric and stratospheric regions is crucial for predicting long-term climate trends and developing strategies for mitigating climate change effects globally.

Related terms

Ozone Layer: A region within the stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone (O₃) molecules, which absorb the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Troposphere: The lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, extending from the surface up to about 10 kilometers (6 miles), where most weather phenomena occur and temperature decreases with altitude.

Mesosphere: The layer of the atmosphere located above the stratosphere, extending from about 50 to 85 kilometers (31 to 53 miles) above sea level, where temperatures decrease with altitude.