Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
troposphere
noun
/ˈtrōpəsˌfi(ə)r/
Definition
The lowest layer of the Earth’s atmosphere, where most weather occurs and where human beings live.
Examples
- The troposphere is where clouds form and weather changes take place.
- Commercial airplanes typically fly at the boundary between the troposphere and the stratosphere.
- A hurricane forms in the troposphere and can have devastating effects on coastal areas.
Meaning
The troposphere is the atmospheric layer closest to the Earth’s surface, extending from the ground up to about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) high. It is characterized by a decrease in temperature with altitude and contains approximately 75% of the atmosphere’s mass, including water vapor and various gases.
Synonyms
- lower atmosphere
- air layer
- air zone
