Definition

1. Noun:
   • The atmospheric layer between the stratosphere and the thermosphere: The mesosphere is the third major layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated directly above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere. It is characterized by decreasing temperatures with increasing altitude.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Most meteors burn up in the mesosphere.
  • The mesosphere is too high for airplanes but too low for satellites.
  • Temperatures in the mesosphere can drop below -90°C.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Context: The term is used primarily in meteorology, atmospheric science, and geology to describe a specific region of a planetary atmosphere.
  • Scientists study noctilucent clouds, which form in the upper mesosphere.
• Comparative Planetary Science: The concept can be applied to other planets with substantial atmospheres.
  • The Martian mesosphere is colder and thinner than Earth's.

Variants and Related Words

• Mesospheric (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the mesosphere.
  • Mesospheric winds are difficult to measure directly.

Synonyms

• Middle atmosphere (This is a broader, less precise term that often includes the upper stratosphere and mesosphere).
• Atmospheric layer (A general term for any stratified region of the atmosphere).

Different Meanings

• The word "mesosphere" has a single, specific scientific meaning related to atmospheric structure. It does not have common idiomatic or figurative uses.

Noun

1. the atmospheric layer between the stratosphere and the thermosphere