Correct Option
The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The atmosphere is divided into concentric layers based on temperature and composition. The Stratosphere is the second major layer, situated above the Troposphere and below the Mesosphere, separated from them by the Tropopause and Stratopause, respectively.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Stratosphere extends from the Tropopause (which varies between 8 km at poles to 18 km at the equator) up to a height of approximately 50 km. The layer extending up to roughly 10–13 km is the Troposphere.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Stratosphere contains the ozone layer (ozonosphere), primarily concentrated between 15 km and 35 km. This layer is critical as it absorbs the bulk of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Statement 3 is Correct: In the Stratosphere, temperature increases with altitude. While the lower stratosphere is nearly isothermal (constant temperature), the temperature rises in the upper part due to the absorption of UV radiation by the ozone layer. This temperature inversion stabilizes the air, preventing vertical convection.
Key Takeaway
The Stratosphere extends up to 50 km and is characterized by the presence of the ozone layer, which causes the temperature to rise with altitude, unlike the Troposphere where temperature decreases with height.