The Stratosphere (document)

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, starting about 10-15 kilometers above the surface. It extends up to around 50 kilometers and contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and protects us from harmful ultraviolet sunlight. Unlike the turbulent weather seen closer to the ground, the stratosphere is very stable and contains gentle, steady air currents. Commercial airplanes often fly at its lower levels to avoid the turbulence of the troposphere below. The temperature in the stratosphere increases with altitude due to ozone absorption of sunlight, making it a unique atmospheric layer critical for protecting life on Earth.