Stratosfärisk

Stratosfärisk refers to the layer of Earth's atmosphere that lies above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. It is characterized by a temperature increase with altitude, which is due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by ozone. The stratosphere begins at an altitude of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) above sea level and extends to about 50 kilometers (31 miles). This layer is crucial for several reasons.

One of the most significant features of the stratosphere is the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation. This absorption is essential for protecting life on Earth from harmful UV rays. The stratosphere also contains the majority of the atmosphere's ozone, which is formed through the interaction of solar radiation and oxygen molecules.

The stratosphere is home to the jet streams, which are fast-moving air currents that significantly influence weather patterns and global climate. These jet streams are located at the boundaries of the stratosphere and the troposphere, where the temperature gradient is the strongest.

Aircraft typically fly in the lower part of the stratosphere, known as the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS), due to the stable air and minimal turbulence. This region is also where the ozone layer is most concentrated, making it a critical zone for atmospheric chemistry and climate studies.

The stratosphere plays a vital role in the Earth's climate system and atmospheric chemistry. Understanding its dynamics and composition is essential for predicting climate change and ensuring the health of the ozone layer.