What is the coldest layer of the atmosphere? what is its temperature?
The coldest layer of the atmosphere is the mesosphere, located above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere. Temperatures in the mesosphere can drop as low as about -90 degrees Celsius (-130 degrees Fahrenheit) near its upper boundary.
Mesosphere Explained in Details
The Earth's atmosphere is divided into several layers based on temperature variations and other factors.
The mesosphere is the third layer of the atmosphere, located above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere.
It extends from about 50 kilometers (31 miles) to 85 kilometers (53 miles) above the Earth's surface.
The mesosphere is characterized by a decrease in temperature with increasing altitude. As you move higher in the mesosphere, temperatures drop steadily. Near its upper boundary, temperatures can reach as low as about -90 degrees Celsius (-130 degrees Fahrenheit).
Factors affecting temperatures in Mesosphere
Several factors contribute to the cold temperatures in the mesosphere.
- One significant factor is the decreasing concentration of ozone molecules compared to the stratosphere, which absorbs less solar radiation and contributes to cooling.
- Additionally, the thin air in the mesosphere means there are fewer molecules to absorb and retain heat, leading to colder temperatures.
- The mesosphere is also where meteors burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere.
- These meteors heat up the surrounding air momentarily, but the thin atmosphere causes the heat to dissipate quickly, maintaining the overall cold temperatures of the mesosphere.
Overall, the mesosphere is a frigid layer of the atmosphere, with temperatures significantly colder than those experienced at the Earth's surface or in the layers above it.
Related Questions and Terms
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