Stratosphere: meaning, definitions and examples

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stratosphere

 

[ ˈstrætəˌsfɪr ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

atmospheric layer

The stratosphere is the second major layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. It extends from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This layer is characterized by a gradual increase in temperature with altitude, which is primarily due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer. The stratosphere plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate and weather, as well as in the protection of living organisms from harmful UV rays.

Synonyms

atmospheric layer, upper atmosphere

Examples of usage

  • The airplanes often fly in the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence.
  • Ozone depletion in the stratosphere has raised concerns globally.
  • Weather patterns are influenced by changes in the stratosphere.

Translations

Translations of the word "stratosphere" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estratosfera

🇮🇳 स्त्रातोस्फीयर

🇩🇪 Stratosphäre

🇮🇩 stratosfer

🇺🇦 стратосфера

🇵🇱 stratosfera

🇯🇵 成層圏

🇫🇷 stratosphère

🇪🇸 estratósfera

🇹🇷 stratosfer

🇰🇷 성층권

🇸🇦 الستراتوسفير

🇨🇿 stratosféra

🇸🇰 stratosféra

🇨🇳 平流层

🇸🇮 stratosfera

🇮🇸 stratosphere

🇰🇿 стратофера

🇬🇪 სტრატოსფერო

🇦🇿 stratosfer

🇲🇽 estratósfera

Word origin

The term 'stratosphere' was first introduced by the German scientist Hugo Hassinger in 1902, derived from the Latin word 'stratum', meaning 'layer', and 'sphaera', meaning 'sphere'. This new layer was classified based on its unique atmospheric characteristics noted during extensive studies of air pressure and temperature. As scientists observed the relationship between various layers of atmosphere, they began to distinguish the stratosphere as a separate entity from the troposphere, where most weather phenomena occur. The understanding of the stratosphere evolved significantly throughout the 20th century, especially with the rise of aviation and the study of ozone depletion, reinforcing its importance in both meteorology and environmental science.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,507, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.