Definition

The layer of the atmosphere that is above the troposphere and below the mesosphere, extending from about 6 to 30 miles above the Earth's surface, where temperatures increase with altitude and clouds are uncommon.

Example

The weather balloons are released into the stratosphere to collect data on atmospheric conditions.

Conversation

Did you know that planes fly in the stratosphere?

Really? I thought they just flew in the clouds.

Nope, the stratosphere is where they get better fuel efficiency.

That makes sense! It's interesting how high they actually go.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stratosphere → It is formed from "strato-" (from Greek "stratos", meaning layer or spreading out) and "sphere" (from Greek "sphaira", meaning ball or globe). The word "stratosphere" refers to the layer of the atmosphere that is spread out in a spherical shape above the troposphere.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'strato-' meaning a 'layer' and 'sphere' meaning a 'globe' — together they describe the layer of the atmosphere that forms a globe around the Earth.

Visually Confused Words