tropopause
Noun: The tropopause is the boundary layer in Earth's atmosphere that marks the transition between the troposphere (the lowest layer) and the stratosphere (the layer above it). It is characterized by a significant change in the temperature lapse rate; temperature stops decreasing with altitude and becomes constant or begins to increase.
The word tropopause is used as a singular noun to refer to this specific atmospheric interface. It is a technical term primarily used in meteorology, climatology, and atmospheric science. - The altitude of the tropopause varies with latitude and season. - Scientists study the tropopause to understand weather patterns and climate change. - Commercial aircraft often cruise near the tropopause.
- Tropopause folding: A complex meteorological phenomenon where stratospheric air descends into the troposphere, often associated with intense weather systems.
- Tropopause folding can lead to the transport of ozone-rich air into the lower atmosphere.
- Tropopause height / altitude: A common measurement discussed in atmospheric research.
- Climate models predict a rise in tropopause height due to global warming.
- Troposphere (noun): The lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to the tropopause. It is where nearly all weather phenomena occur.
- Stratosphere (noun): The layer of the atmosphere above the tropopause, characterized by a temperature inversion.
- Atmospheric boundary layer (in this specific context between troposphere and stratosphere).
- Transition zone (between troposphere and stratosphere).
Note: There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs associated with this highly technical term.
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the region of discontinuity between the troposphere and the stratosphere
