Problem 11 - 43 Years JEE ADVANCED (1978-2020) + JEE MAIN Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Papers Chemistry

Question

The layer of atmosphere between \(10 \mathrm{~km}\) to \(50 \mathrm{~km}\) above the sea level is called as: (a) troposphere (b) thermosphere (c) stratosphere (d) mesosphere

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The layer is the stratosphere.

Step 1: Understanding the Atmospheric Layers

The Earth's atmosphere is divided into different layers based on temperature gradients, altitude, and other characteristics. These layers include the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere.

Step 2: Analyze the Altitude Range

The question specifies the altitude range from 10 km to 50 km above sea level. We need to determine which atmospheric layer is located within this altitude range.

Step 3: Reviewing Characteristics of Each Layer

- The troposphere extends from the Earth's surface up to about 10 km. - The stratosphere lies above the troposphere and extends approximately from 10 km to 50 km. - The mesosphere ranges from around 50 km to 85 km. - The thermosphere lies above the mesosphere, starting around 85 km.

Step 4: Identifying the Correct Layer

Based on the analysis, the altitude range given in the problem (10 km to 50 km) corresponds to the stratosphere. None of the other layers fall within this range.

Key Concepts

Atmospheric Layers

The Earth's atmosphere is a vast region surrounding our planet, made up of several distinct layers. Each layer has its own unique properties and functions, which influence everything from weather patterns to how temperature changes with altitude. These layers are typically divided based on changes in temperature and other physical characteristics.

• Troposphere: This is the layer closest to Earth, extending up to around 10 km. It's where we live and where all weather occurs.
• Stratosphere: Situated above the troposphere, this layer ranges from about 10 km to 50 km. It is crucial for containing the ozone layer, which protects life by filtering harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
• Mesosphere: Above the stratosphere, the mesosphere stretches from 50 km to around 85 km. This layer is where most meteors burn up upon entering Earth's atmosphere.
• Thermosphere: This layer extends from about 85 km to thousands of kilometers above Earth. It's characterized by high temperatures and is where the auroras occur.

Understanding these layers helps us grasp how Earth's atmosphere protects and supports life.

Altitude Range

Altitude refers to the height above sea level and plays a significant role in defining the layers of the atmosphere. In our context, the altitude range from 10 km to 50 km is particularly interesting, as it contains the stratosphere. This range is pivotal in atmospheric studies for several reasons.

• Stratosphere's Significance: Within this range, apart from housing the ozone layer, the stratosphere is known for its relatively stable air conditions and absence of weather patterns, making it ideal for the flight paths of aircraft and the movement of many long-range missiles.
• Decreasing Density: As altitude increases, the air becomes thinner and less dense, affecting everything from human physiology to how sound travels and how aircraft perform.

By understanding these altitudinal changes, we can appreciate how they affect both natural and human activities.

Temperature Gradients

Temperature gradients in the atmosphere describe how temperature changes with an increase in altitude. In the stratosphere, which spans from about 10 km to 50 km above sea level, these gradients reveal fascinating dynamics.

• Temperature Increase with Altitude: Unlike the troposphere, where temperature decreases with altitude, the stratosphere experiences a temperature increase due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer.
• Layer Stability: This increase in temperature creates a stable environment with little vertical mixing, leading to fewer clouds and weather patterns.
• Stratospheric Impact: The temperature characteristics of the stratosphere play a critical role in jet stream formation, influencing broader climate patterns and weather forecasting.

These temperature changes underscore the complexity and interconnectedness of atmospheric dynamics, influencing everything from climate to aviation.