Chapter 30, Problem 6RQ

Does temperature increase or decrease as one moves upward in the troposphere? As one moves upward in the stratosphere?

To determine

Whether the temperature increase or decrease as one moves up in troposphere and stratosphere.

Answer to Problem 6RQ

The temperature decreases as one moves upward in troposphere and increases in stratosphere.

Explanation of Solution

The atmosphere of the Earth comprises of different layers, which have different elevation above the sea level. Each layer has its distinct properties. The lowermost layer is troposphere, which includes nearly most of the mass of the atmosphere, including water vapor and clouds. In this layer, the temperature steadily decreases with an increase in altitude. At the top of the troposphere, the average temperature is almost $-50\text{°C}$.

Above the troposphere, stratosphere layer exists, which reaches a height of $50\text{km}$ from the ground. Ozone molecules formation takes place in this layer. The stratosphere layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. Due to this absorption, the temperature rises on moving from bottom to top of this layer.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the temperature decreases as one moves upward in troposphere and increases in stratosphere.