1. Gases:
* Nitrogen (N2): Makes up about 78% of the stratosphere, just like the troposphere below.
* Oxygen (O2): Comprises about 21% of the stratosphere, again similar to the troposphere.
* Ozone (O3): This is the defining characteristic of the stratosphere. It's formed when ultraviolet radiation from the Sun splits oxygen molecules (O2), and the resulting oxygen atoms combine with other oxygen molecules. This ozone layer absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting life on Earth.
2. Other Trace Gases:
* Water vapor: Present in very small amounts, decreasing with altitude.
* Carbon dioxide (CO2): A greenhouse gas, present in the stratosphere but at lower concentrations than in the troposphere.
* Other trace gases: Including methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and halocarbons (CFCs), some of which contribute to ozone depletion.
3. Aerosols:
* Sulfate aerosols: These are tiny particles formed from volcanic eruptions and other sources. They reflect sunlight and can influence climate.
* Meteorite dust: Small particles of rock and metal from space contribute to the stratosphere's composition.
4. Temperature:
* The stratosphere is characterized by a temperature inversion. This means that temperatures increase with altitude, unlike the troposphere where temperatures decrease with altitude. This is due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer.
It's important to remember that the composition of the stratosphere can vary slightly depending on location, season, and other factors. However, the overall structure and major components are consistent.
