Introduction / Context:
Understanding how temperature varies with altitude explains phenomena such as the ozone layer, jet stream positioning, and weather limits. The atmosphere is divided into layers based on temperature gradients: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere, with transition boundaries called pauses (tropopause, stratopause, etc.).
Given Data / Assumptions:
- We want the layer where temperature begins to increase with height after the lowermost layer.
- We use the standard mid-latitude profile.
- We interpret “after” as “above the troposphere.”
Concept / Approach:
In the
troposphere, temperature generally decreases with height. At the
tropopause, this decline ceases. Entering the
stratosphere, temperature increases with altitude due to absorption of ultraviolet radiation by ozone, producing a temperature inversion relative to the troposphere. The ionosphere and exosphere are higher, with different physical definitions; the “rapid” increase referenced immediately above the weather layer is the stratospheric warming trend.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the lowest layer: troposphere (weather takes place here).At the tropopause, lapse rate approaches zero.In the stratosphere, temperature rises with altitude due to ozone absorption.Hence, select “stratosphere.”
Verification / Alternative check:
Standard atmospheric profiles and radiosonde data show temperature minima at the tropopause and an inversion in the stratosphere, confirming the answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Ionosphere/exosphere: Much higher regions; not the first layer where warming begins above the surface layer.Troposphere: The layer where temperature generally falls with height.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the term “after troposphere” with “after stratosphere.” The immediate warming layer above the troposphere is the stratosphere.
Final Answer:
stratosphere
Discussion & Comments