Water vapor is nearly absent ________.
A) in the upper reaches of the atmosphere
B) in the lower reaches of the atmosphere
C) in the troposphere
D) in the atmosphere over sea surfaces
E) in the atmosphere over land surfaces

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Water vapor is a greenhouse gas and tends to stay in the lower atmosphere (troposphere) where it can contribute to warming. As altitude increases, the air gets cooler and cannot hold as much water vapor, so it condenses into clouds and precipitation. Therefore, water vapor is nearly absent in the upper reaches of the atmosphere.

Water Vapor Is Nearly Absent ________