At which latitude is the tropopause highest?

• A. Equator
• B. 30ºN
• C. 40ºN
• D. Tropics

Answer: (D)

The tropopause, which is the boundary between the troposphere and the stratosphere, generally occurs at varying altitudes depending on geographic locations, particularly latitude. The correct answer indicates that the tropopause is highest in the tropics, specifically around the equatorial region.

In the tropics, where the warm air rises due to intense solar heating, the height of the tropopause can reach approximately 18 kilometers (about 11 miles) in altitude. This is significantly higher than at mid-latitudes or polar regions, where the tropopause tends to be lower due to cooler temperatures and lesser vertical convection.

As one moves away from the equator towards higher latitudes, such as 30ºN or 40ºN, the tropopause decreases in altitude due to the cooler climate conditions. In these regions, the tropopause operates at lower altitudes—typically around 10 to 12 kilometers (about 6 to 7.5 miles) in the mid-latitudes and even lower in polar areas.

Understanding the vertical structure of the atmosphere is crucial for many aspects of meteorology, including flight planning and weather prediction, since the tropopause influences weather patterns and the behavior of aircraft. The significant height of the tropopause in