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What is the altitude range of the stratosphere?

  1. From ground level to 10 km

  2. From 10 km to 50 km above Earth's surface

  3. From 5 km to 20 km above Earth's surface

  4. From 50 km to 100 km above Earth's surface

The correct answer is: From 10 km to 50 km above Earth's surface

The stratosphere is the second major layer of Earth's atmosphere, situated above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. Its altitude range is generally recognized as extending from about 10 kilometers to 50 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. This distinctive layer is important because it contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation, thus playing a significant role in protecting living organisms on the planet. The stratosphere is characterized by a temperature increase with altitude, contrasting with the troposphere where temperatures typically decrease with height. This temperature inversion contributes to stability in this layer, which is one of the reasons why commercial airplanes often fly within this range, as the air is less turbulent. The other altitude ranges listed do not correctly correspond to the established boundaries of the stratosphere, making them inaccurate in this context.