STRATOSPHERE Meaning and
Definition
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The stratosphere is the layer of Earth's atmosphere located above the troposphere and below the mesosphere, extending from approximately 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. It is characterized by its relatively stable temperatures and the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The stratosphere experiences a gradual temperature increase with altitude due to the absorption of UV radiation by the ozone layer. This warmth creates a stable environment, preventing vertical air movements and giving rise to calm and clear weather patterns. Jet streams, high-speed air currents, are also found in the stratosphere.
One distinctive feature of the stratosphere is the presence of the ozone layer. Ozone molecules in the stratosphere absorb much of the Sun's UV radiation, shielding the Earth's surface from its harmful effects, such as skin cancer and damage to ecosystems. This protective quality of the ozone layer is vital for life on Earth.
In addition to its protective function, the stratosphere is also relevant for aviation. Commercial airplanes often cruise in the lower stratosphere to take advantage of its calm conditions and efficient fuel consumption. Furthermore, the stratosphere serves as a pathway for the dispersal of pollutants and greenhouse gases, influencing climate and environmental processes.
Overall, the stratosphere plays a crucial role in Earth's atmosphere by providing stability, housing the ozone layer, and influencing climate patterns, making it a significant layer in understanding and studying the planet's atmospheric dynamics.
Top Common Misspellings for STRATOSPHERE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for STRATOSPHERE
Etymology of STRATOSPHERE
The word "stratosphere" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "stratos", meaning "spread out" or "layer", and "sphaira", meaning "sphere" or "globe". When combined, the word "stratosphere" refers to a layer or region of the Earth's atmosphere, which is spread out like a sphere above the troposphere, extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers (6 to 31 miles) in altitude. The term was coined in the early 20th century by the French meteorologist Léon-Philippe Teisserenc de Bort, who was studying the Earth's atmospheric layers and their properties.
Idioms with the word STRATOSPHERE
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go into the stratosphere
The idiom "go into the stratosphere" means to experience a significant increase, especially in terms of popularity, success, or achievement. It refers to something or someone soaring to extraordinary heights or reaching new levels of accomplishment.
Similar spelling word for STRATOSPHERE
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