The upper atmosphere, extending from the top of the troposphere to the edge of space, plays a critical role in Earth's climate system and in protecting life from harmful solar radiation. It includes layers such as the stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere, each with distinct characteristics and functions.

Upper Atmosphere

Top of the troposphere

Edge of space

Earth's climate system

Harmful solar radiation

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere and below the mesosphere, characterized by a temperature increase with altitude due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer. This layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by filtering out harmful solar radiation and influencing weather patterns and climate systems.

Stratosphere

The mesosphere is the third layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere, characterized by decreasing temperatures with altitude. It plays a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, including the formation of noctilucent clouds and the burning up of meteors due to its density and composition.

Mesosphere

The thermosphere is the fourth layer of Earth's atmosphere, characterized by a significant increase in temperature with altitude, where temperatures can rise above 2,000°C due to the absorption of intense solar radiation. This layer plays a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, housing the ionosphere which is vital for radio communication and satellite operations.

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