Question

Why does stratosphere temperature increase with altitude?

A) Due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by ozone molecules.
B) Decrease in air density causing less heat absorption.
C) Greater presence of greenhouse gases trapping heat.
D) Convection currents carrying warm air upward.

Answer 1

The temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude primarily due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by ozone molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

The temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude primarily due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by ozone molecules (option A). Ozone is a form of oxygen with three atoms per molecule, and it acts as a good absorber of UV light. When ozone molecules absorb UV radiation, they break up and release heat, which warms up the stratosphere.

This heating effect of ozone helps to reverse the usual decreasing temperature trend seen in the lower layer of the atmosphere called the troposphere. In the troposphere, temperature decreases with increasing altitude. However, in the stratosphere, the presence of ozone leads to an increase in temperature with increasing altitude.