Question

Mention the chief characteristics of stratosphere.

Answer 1

1. The air is thin, cold and dry. The temperature is about −55°C.
2. The stratosphere contains the ozone layer. Ozone is typically found between 20 and 50 kilometres above sea level.
3. The UV solar light from above is absorbed by ozone. The amount of insolation that the sun emits and receives is equal. For this reason, the layer's temperature remains steady. However, at the higher elevations, the temperature rises with altitude.
4. Given its consistent temperature and near-complete lack of water vapour, the lower stratosphere is perfect for jet aircraft flight.
5. Temperature rises from −60°C at the base of the stratosphere to 0°C at stratopause.
6. The upper limit of the stratosphere is known as stratopause.