Which term represents the change in temperature in the stratosphere with increasing altitude?

The change in temperature with altitude in the stratosphere is characterized by an increase in temperature. This phenomenon occurs due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun by the ozone layer, which is located within the stratosphere. As altitude increases, the concentration of ozone also increases, leading to greater absorption of UV radiation and, consequently, an increase in temperature.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately describe the thermal structure of the stratosphere:

• A temperature inversion refers to a situation where temperature increases with altitude in the troposphere, creating a cap that can suppress vertical mixing and trapping pollutants below it.

• A stable layer usually describes an atmospheric condition that is not favorable for convection, which can occur with inversions or stratified air but does not specifically define the temperature change in the stratosphere.

• A temperature decrease would describe typical conditions in the troposphere, where temperature decreases with altitude up to the tropopause.

Thus, understanding that the stratosphere experiences a temperature increase with altitude due to its unique composition and the role of ozone illustrates why this term is correct.