Stratosphere

Definition

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere and extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. It is characterized by a gradual increase in temperature with altitude, primarily due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by ozone, which leads to stable atmospheric conditions. This layer plays a crucial role in atmospheric circulation and climate systems, influencing weather patterns and climate regulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stratosphere contains about 20% of the atmosphere's mass and is home to the ozone layer, which protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful UV radiation.
2. Temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude due to the presence of ozone, creating a stable layer that inhibits vertical mixing and turbulence.
3. Commercial jet aircraft typically fly within the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence found in the troposphere, taking advantage of its stable air.
4. The stratosphere plays a significant role in global climate systems as it can influence weather patterns and help regulate temperature variations across the planet.
5. Changes in the stratospheric ozone layer can have direct effects on climate, including impacts on surface temperatures and weather extremes.

Review Questions

• How does the temperature gradient in the stratosphere contribute to its stability compared to the troposphere?
  • In the stratosphere, temperature increases with altitude, which creates a stable atmospheric condition. This stability prevents vertical mixing that is common in the troposphere, where temperature decreases with height. The stratified layers allow for smoother air flow and less turbulence, making it ideal for high-altitude flights and reducing severe weather events that originate lower down.
• Discuss the importance of the ozone layer within the stratosphere and its effect on life on Earth.
  • The ozone layer, located within the stratosphere, plays a crucial role in absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This absorption protects living organisms from skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues caused by excessive UV exposure. Additionally, it helps maintain ecological balance by safeguarding ecosystems that depend on specific light conditions for photosynthesis.
• Evaluate how changes in the stratospheric ozone layer may impact global climate systems and weather patterns.
  • Changes in the stratospheric ozone layer can significantly impact global climate systems by altering temperature distributions in both the stratosphere and troposphere. A reduction in ozone can lead to increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface, affecting ecosystems and human health. Furthermore, disruptions in this layer can influence jet streams and atmospheric circulation patterns, potentially resulting in extreme weather events and shifts in regional climates, highlighting the interconnectedness of atmospheric layers.

Related terms

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

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

Jet Stream: Narrow bands of strong wind in the upper levels of the atmosphere, typically found at the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere, which influence weather patterns and storm systems.