How does air temperature change in the stratosphere as altitude increases?

• A. It remains constant
• B. It decreases
• C. It increases
• D. It fluctuates randomly

Answer: (C)

In the stratosphere, the air temperature actually increases with altitude, which is a key characteristic that distinguishes this layer from the troposphere below it. The reason for this temperature increase is primarily due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. As UV rays are absorbed, they warm the air in the stratosphere. This phenomenon creates a temperature inversion, where the warmer air is found above the cooler air, unlike in the lower atmospheric layers where temperature typically decreases with altitude.

This warming effect contributes to the stability of the stratosphere, limiting vertical mixing and making it a distinct layer in Earth's atmosphere. Understanding this temperature profile is crucial in atmospheric science, as it affects weather patterns and the behavior of aircraft flying in these layers.