Stratosphere

Definition

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated above the troposphere and below the mesosphere, extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers (6 to 31 miles) above sea level. This layer is characterized by a temperature inversion, where temperature increases with altitude due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by the ozone layer, which is located within the stratosphere. The unique structure and composition of the stratosphere play crucial roles in Earth's climate and weather patterns.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stratosphere contains approximately 90% of the atmosphere's ozone, which protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful UV radiation.
2. Temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude due to the absorption of UV radiation by ozone, creating a stable atmospheric layer with less turbulence compared to the troposphere.
3. Commercial jet aircraft typically fly within the lower stratosphere, taking advantage of its stable conditions for efficient long-distance travel.
4. Weather patterns are mostly confined to the troposphere; thus, the stratosphere plays a less direct role in daily weather but influences long-term climate through its interactions with other atmospheric layers.
5. Disturbances in the stratosphere, such as sudden warming events, can have significant impacts on weather patterns and climate variability on Earth.

Review Questions

• How does the temperature gradient in the stratosphere differ from that in the troposphere, and what implications does this have for weather phenomena?
  • In the troposphere, temperature decreases with altitude, leading to more turbulent conditions that foster weather events. In contrast, the stratosphere exhibits a temperature inversion where temperatures increase with altitude due to ozone absorption of UV radiation. This stability in the stratosphere means that it experiences less turbulence and is not directly involved in weather formation, resulting in a calmer atmospheric layer above the more dynamic troposphere.
• Discuss the importance of the ozone layer within the stratosphere and its role in protecting life on Earth.
  • The ozone layer, found within the stratosphere, is crucial for absorbing a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun. By filtering out these rays, the ozone layer protects living organisms on Earth from potential damage such as skin cancer and cataracts in humans, as well as harmful effects on various ecosystems. Without this protective shield, life on Earth would face severe risks due to increased UV exposure.
• Evaluate how changes in the stratospheric conditions can impact global climate patterns and what factors contribute to these changes.
  • Changes in stratospheric conditions can significantly influence global climate patterns through various mechanisms. For example, sudden warming events or alterations in ozone concentrations can affect circulation patterns in both the stratosphere and troposphere. Additionally, factors like greenhouse gas emissions and aerosols can impact temperature gradients and stability within the stratosphere. These changes can lead to shifts in weather patterns, including altered precipitation distribution and increased frequency of extreme weather events.

Related terms

Troposphere:

The lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, extending from the surface up to about 10 kilometers, where most weather phenomena occur.

Ozone Layer: A region within the stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone (O₃) molecules, which absorb harmful UV radiation from the Sun.

Mesosphere: The layer of Earth's atmosphere above the stratosphere, ranging from about 50 to 85 kilometers, where temperatures decrease with altitude and meteors typically burn up.