Definition

The boundary layer in the atmosphere that separates the troposphere from the stratosphere, with its height changing based on location, being lower at the poles and higher at the equator.

Example

The weather patterns are influenced by the conditions at the tropopause.

Conversation

Did you know that the tropopause is the boundary between the troposphere and the stratosphere?

Really? I had no idea it varied in height depending on where you are.

Yeah, it's fascinating how it can be around 8 kilometers at the poles and 18 at the equator.

That’s pretty cool! I need to learn more about atmospheric layers.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tropopause → It is formed from "tropo-" (from Greek "tropos", meaning turn or change) and "pause" (from Latin "pausa", meaning a stop or break). The word refers to the boundary layer in the atmosphere where the temperature stops decreasing with altitude, marking a change in the atmospheric conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tropo-' meaning a 'change' in the atmosphere and 'pause' indicating a 'stop' — the tropopause is where the temperature change stops.

Visually Confused Words