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stratosphere
Stratosphere (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does stratosphere mean?
The second layer of the Earth's atmosphere, lying above the troposphere and below the mesosphere.
"The stratosphere is characterized by a relative lack of weather and turbulence."
Detailed Meaning of Stratosphere
It extends from about 8 to 50 kilometers (5 to 31 miles) above the Earth's surface, and is characterized by a relatively stable temperature and low wind speeds. The stratosphere is divided into two main regions: the lower stratosphere and the upper stratosphere. The lower stratosphere is where the ozone layer is located, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The upper stratosphere is where jet streams and other high-altitude winds are found.
The stratosphere is not as well-mixed as the lower atmosphere, so it contains less water vapor, dust, and other particles. This means that air in the stratosphere is relatively clean and clear. It also contains a number of different gases such as ozone, nitrogen, oxygen and some trace gases which are important for the Earth's radiation balance. The stratosphere is also home to a number of high-altitude aircrafts and weather balloons that are used to study the upper atmosphere.
Example Sentences for Stratosphere
1. The stratosphere is the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
2. Commercial airplanes typically fly in the lower stratosphere.
3. The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere.
4. The stratosphere is characterized by a decrease in temperature with increasing altitude.
5. Astronauts need to pass through the stratosphere to reach outer space.
6. The stratosphere plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate.
Origin and Etymology of Stratosphere
The noun 'stratosphere' has its etymological origins in Greek. It is formed from two Greek words: 'stratos,' meaning 'spread out' or 'layer,' and 'sphaira,' meaning 'sphere' or 'ball.' In atmospheric science, the 'stratosphere' refers to the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere, lying above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. The term 'stratosphere' emphasizes its position as a distinct layer or spread-out region within the Earth's atmosphere. This region is characterized by its unique properties, including the presence of the ozone layer, which plays a crucial role in absorbing and blocking harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. 'Stratosphere' reflects its Greek roots in the concept of a layered or spread-out sphere, distinguishing it from other atmospheric layers.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the noun stratosphere:
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More Usage Examples of Stratosphere
1. The stratosphere is above the troposphere but below the mesosphere.
2. Weather phenomena such as jet streams are observed in the stratosphere.
3. The stratosphere contains high concentrations of ozone molecules.
4. The temperature in the stratosphere can reach as low as -60 degrees Celsius.
5. The stratosphere protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
6. The stratosphere is where you can find the highest clouds, called noctilucent clouds.
7. Some airplanes fly at the edge of the stratosphere to capture stunning views of the curvature of the Earth.
8. The stratosphere extends from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface.
9. Stratospheric winds are stronger and more consistent compared to winds in the troposphere.
10. Weather balloons are used to collect data on temperature and pressure in the stratosphere.
11. The boundary between the troposphere and the stratosphere is known as the tropopause.
12. The stratosphere is less dense than the layers below it.
13. The stratosphere is a vital component in protecting life on Earth from the harshness of outer space.
14. Commercial airplanes often cruise in the stratosphere.
15. The ozone layer is found in the upper stratosphere.
16. The stratosphere protects us from harmful solar radiation.
17. Weather balloons can reach the lower stratosphere.
18. The stratosphere is where the jet stream flows.
19. Satellites orbit in the outer reaches of the stratosphere.
20. The temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude.
21. The stratosphere plays a vital role in climate regulation.
22. Astronomers study cosmic rays from the stratosphere.
23. The International Space Station is just above the stratosphere.
24. Aircraft in the stratosphere encounter less turbulence.
Synonyms and Related Words for Stratosphere
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.
✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.
✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT