Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
stratosphere
noun
/ˈstræt.əˌsfɪr/
Definition
The stratosphere is the second layer of the Earth’s atmosphere, located above the troposphere and below the mesosphere.
Examples
- Commercial jetliners typically fly in the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence.
- The ozone layer is found in the stratosphere, protecting life on Earth from harmful UV radiation.
- Weather balloons are often launched into the stratosphere to collect atmospheric data.
Meaning
It is characterized by a gradual increase in temperature with altitude, primarily due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer.
Synonyms
- Upper atmosphere
- Atmospheric layer
