Ascending parcels of unstable air seldom extend above the tropopause because
A)the troposphere is extremely stable
B)the troposphere is extremely unstable
C)the stratosphere is extremely stable
D)the stratosphere is extremely unstable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tropopause marks the boundary between the troposphere and the stratosphere. The stratosphere is characterized by a strong temperature inversion, which means that temperature increases with height. This creates a very stable layer of air, which prevents the upward motion of unstable air parcels from the troposphere. Therefore, unstable air seldom extends above the tropopause into the stratosphere.

Ascending Parcels of Unstable Air Seldom Extend Above the Tropopause