Science glossary film: Stratosphere

The second layer of the Earth's atmosphere, above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. It extends from about 10 to 50km in altitude, and is slightly lower at the poles. Unlike the layers above and below it, the stratosphere's temperature increases with height. Airliners cruise in the lower edge of the stratosphere, where the thin, cold air can aid engine efficiency.

Unlike the layers above and below it, the stratosphere's temperature increases with height. Airliners cruise in the lower edge of the stratosphere, where the thin, cold air can aid engine efficiency.