Question

Which layer of the atmosphere is directly above the troposphere?

1) exosphere
2) mesosphere
3) stratosphere
4) cannot_be_fixed

Answer 1

The stratosphere is the layer of the atmosphere that is directly above the troposphere. It contains the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful UV-B rays, and is where most commercial airplanes fly.

Step-by-step explanation:

The layer of the Earth's atmosphere that is directly above the troposphere is the stratosphere. This is the second layer of the atmosphere, where the ozone layer resides, which absorbs the majority of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet B (UV-B) rays.

In summary, the atmospheric layers, in ascending order, are:

1. Troposphere (up to 12 km)
2. Stratosphere (12-50 km)
3. Mesosphere (50-80 km)
4. Thermosphere (80-700 km)
5. Exosphere (greater than 700 km)

The stratosphere is the layer where most commercial airplanes fly and is known for the presence of the ozone layer that protects us from UV radiation. It extends from about 6 miles (10 km) up to 31 miles (50 km) above the Earth's surface.