Which layer of Earth's atmosphere contains the ozone layer?

The stratosphere is the layer of Earth's atmosphere that contains the ozone layer. This layer is located approximately 10 to 30 miles above the Earth's surface, sitting above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. The ozone layer is crucial because it absorbs the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting living organisms on Earth from its damaging effects.

In addition to the protective role the ozone layer plays, the stratosphere is characterized by a temperature inversion where, unlike the troposphere, temperatures actually increase with altitude. This temperature gradient helps to stabilize the air within the stratosphere, preventing the vertical mixing that occurs in the troposphere. Because of these properties, the stratosphere plays an essential role in both weather patterns and the health of the environment.

Understanding the function and location of the ozone layer within the atmosphere is key for grasping the broader concepts of atmospheric science and environmental protection.