Explain why the temperature in the stratosphere rises with increasing altitude and define soil.

16. e) The temperature in the stratosphere rises with increasing altitude primarily due to the presence of the ozone layer. Ozone molecules ($\text{O}_3$) absorb harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, converting this energy into heat. This absorption process warms the surrounding air, leading to a temperature inversion where temperatures increase with height.

17. a) Soil is the loose, uppermost layer of Earth's surface, composed of weathered rock particles, organic matter (humus), water, air, and living organisms, which supports plant growth.

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