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Troposphere Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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troposphere

[ˈtrəʊpəˌsfɪə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

atmospheric layer

The troposphere is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, extending from the surface up to about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) high. This layer contains approximately 75% of the atmosphere's mass and is where most of the weather phenomena occur, such as clouds, rain, and storms. The troposphere is characterized by a decrease in temperature with altitude.

Synonyms

lower atmosphere, weather layer.

Examples of usage

  • The troposphere is where we experience weather changes.
  • Airplanes typically fly above the troposphere.
  • The greenhouse effect occurs mainly in the troposphere.
  • Weather balloons are launched into the troposphere to gather data.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • This layer extends from the Earth's surface up to about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) high, depending on where you are on the planet.
  • In the troposphere, temperature generally decreases with altitude, leading to various weather phenomena like clouds and storms.
  • Most of the mass of Earth's atmosphere is contained in the troposphere, which holds around 75% of it.

Impact on Weather

  • Weather phenomena such as rain, snow, and storms occur predominantly in this layer, making it crucial for climate studies.
  • The troposphere is where you can find the most well-known weather patterns, like hurricanes and tornadoes.

Environmental Importance

  • Human activities, including pollution, have significant effects on the troposphere, influencing climate change.
  • Air quality in this layer is essential for health; pollutants can lead to conditions such as smog and respiratory issues.

Literature and Culture

  • The troposphere often features in poetry and literature as a metaphor for change and the unseen forces affecting our lives.
  • Many authors and artists use the weather in the troposphere to symbolize human emotions and experiences, bringing nature and humanity together.

Origin of 'troposphere'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'troposphere' comes from Greek, where 'tropos' means 'turn' or 'change', reflecting how weather changes in this layer.
  • The name was coined in the early 20th century as scientists began to understand atmospheric layers more clearly.

The term 'troposphere' is derived from the Greek word 'tropos,' meaning 'turning' or 'changing,' which reflects the dynamic nature of this atmospheric layer. The suffix '-sphere' comes from the Greek word 'sphaira,' meaning 'ball' or 'globe.' The concept of the troposphere was first introduced in the early 20th century as scientists began to better understand the structure and behavior of Earth’s atmosphere. It was identified as a distinct layer where temperature decreases with altitude and where weather occurs, in contrast to the stratosphere above it. The troposphere interacts with human activities, including pollution and climate change, influencing its composition and behavior, thus playing a critical role in meteorology and environmental science.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,558, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.