noun
- the layer of the Earth’s atmosphere above the mesosphere, characterized by increasing temperature with altitude due to absorption of solar radiation
Usage: atmospheric science
Examples
- The thermosphere extends from about 80 kilometers to 600 kilometers above Earth’s surface.
- Satellites orbit within the thermosphere where atmospheric density is extremely low.
- Solar activity can cause significant temperature variations in the thermosphere.
- The International Space Station travels through the lower thermosphere.
- Aurora phenomena occur in the thermosphere when solar particles interact with atmospheric gases.
- Despite high temperatures, the thermosphere would feel cold due to its low density.