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How does the stratosphere differ from the troposphere?
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Atmosphere
The atmospheres of planets in the solar system are composed of various gases, particulates, and liquids. They are also dynamic places that redistribute heat and other forms of energy. On Earth, the atmosphere provides critical ingredients for living things. Here, feathery cirrus clouds drift across the deep blue sky over Pinawa Dam Provincial Park, near Pinawa, Manitoba, Canada.
The troposphere and stratosphere are distinct layers of Earth's atmosphere separated by the tropopause.12
The primary differences include:
- Temperature Profile: In the troposphere, temperature decreases with altitude. In contrast, the lower stratosphere is nearly isothermal, while temperatures in the upper stratosphere increase with height due to the absorption of solar radiation by the ozone layer.123
- Weather and Clouds: The troposphere contains most of the atmosphere's clouds and weather systems. The stratosphere is characterized by strong thermodynamic stability, little vertical mixing, and is generally cloud-free due to its dry air.24
- Composition: The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which is vital for shielding life from harmful ultraviolet radiation. While some ozone exists in the troposphere, it is often associated with pollutants and photochemical smog.43
- Altitude: The troposphere extends from the surface to about 10–18 km. The stratosphere begins above this boundary and extends to approximately 50 km.123