which of the following best explains why the lower portion of the troposphere is warmer than the upper portion?
Which of the following best explains why the lower portion of the troposphere is warmer than the upper portion?
Answer:
The lower portion of the troposphere is warmer than the upper portion due to the absorption of sunlight by the Earth’s surface. When sunlight reaches the Earth, it warms the surface of the planet. The surface, in turn, heats the air in contact with it through conduction and convection. As we move upward in the troposphere, the density of air decreases, and the air molecules are further apart. This means that there are fewer air molecules to absorb and retain heat in the upper part of the troposphere, leading to cooler temperatures compared to the lower part. Additionally, the greenhouse effect also plays a role in trapping heat in the lower troposphere, contributing to its warmth.