The lapse rate

The vertical distribution of temperature in Earth’s atmosphere exhibits fascinating

variations as we ascend from the surface toward space. Let’s explore this intriguing journey:

Troposphere:
The troposphere is the layer closest to the Earth’s surface, extending up to approximately 10
kilometers (6.2 miles).
Temperature Gradient: Within the troposphere, the temperature decreases with altitude.
On average, it cools at a rate of about 6.5°C per kilometer (or 3.56°F per 1,000 feet).
Heating Source: Solar radiation absorbed by the Earth’s surface heats the troposphere from
below.

Stratosphere:
Above the troposphere lies the stratosphere, extending from about 10 km to 50 km.
Temperature Behavior: In the stratosphere, the temperature increases with altitude due to
the presence of ozone. Ozone absorbs medium-wavelength ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading
to this warming effect.
Ozone Layer: The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which shields us from harmful UV
radiation.

Mesosphere:
Beyond the stratosphere lies the mesosphere, spanning from about 50 km to 85 km.
Temperature Profile: As we ascend through the mesosphere, the temperature decreases
again.
Mesopause: The mesopause, located around 80–90 km, marks the boundary between the
mesosphere and the thermosphere.

Thermosphere:
The thermosphere extends from the mesopause upward.
High Temperatures: Despite its thinness, the thermosphere experiences extremely high
temperatures due to the absorption of very short-wavelength UV radiation by oxygen and
nitrogen.
Ionization: At these altitudes, the atmosphere becomes ionized, forming the ionosphere.
Radio waves reflect off the ionosphere, making it practically significant for communication.
Exosphere:
The outermost layer, the exosphere, gradually transitions into space.
Sparse Particles: The exosphere contains very few particles, and their motion is influenced
by gravitational forces rather than collisions.
No Well-Defined Boundary: Unlike other layers, the exosphere doesn’t have a distinct top;
instead, density and pressure decrease exponentially with height.
Remember that these atmospheric layers play essential roles in climate, weather, and
communication systems. The intricate dance of temperature and composition shapes our

dynamic atmosphere 12. 🌍🌬️🌡️