Troposphere
The lowest region of the Earth's atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface to about 10-15 km (6-9 miles) in altitude, where most weather occurs.
It's the layer where we live and where virtually all meteorological phenomena take place.
Word relationships
- lower atmosphere: A descriptive phrase, but 'troposphere' is the precise scientific term.
Commonly confused with
- Stratosphere: The stratosphere is the layer above the troposphere, characterized by stable air and the ozone layer.
Word family
- tropospheric (adjective): Relating to the troposphere.
Collocations
- upper troposphere
- lower troposphere
- within the troposphere
- top of the troposphere
Example sentences
- "All of Earth's familiar weather, from gentle breezes to violent thunderstorms, occurs within the troposphere." Explaining atmospheric layers.
- "Commercial airplanes typically fly near the top of the troposphere or in the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence." Discussing aviation.
Memory hook
Think 'TROPO' (like 'tropical' where weather is active) + 'SPHERE'. It's the sphere of the atmosphere where things are always 'turning' and changing. Tropical sphere of change
When not to use
Do not use 'troposphere' interchangeably with 'atmosphere'; it is only the lowest part of the atmosphere.
Fun facts
- The height of the troposphere varies with latitude and season, being thicker at the equator and thinner at the poles.
- The temperature generally decreases with altitude in the troposphere, which is why mountaintops are colder.
Related words
Explore more words
meteorology, microburst, terrestrial, precipitation, trophic, biosphere
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