Definition of ionosphere
: the part of the earth's atmosphere in which ionization of atmospheric gases affects the propagation of radio waves, which extends from about 30 miles (50 kilometers) to the exosphere, and which is contiguous with the upper portion of the mesosphere and the thermosphere; also : a comparable region of charged particles surrounding another celestial body (such as Venus)
People Are Reading
Recent Examples of ionosphere from the Web
-
The 670-pound rocket is on a fact-finding mission to support studies of the ionosphere and aurora, but its purpose is overshadowed here on Earth by 10 Pepsi-can-sized canisters.
-
NASA will release luminescent clouds above the Mid-Atlantic coast while testing a new system to support studies of the ionosphere.
-
BALTIMORE — NASA will release luminescent clouds above the Mid-Atlantic coast while testing a new system to support studies of the ionosphere.
-
Operated by the High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program, this disruption can raise the temperature of the ionosphere by as much as 30 percent over a 9- to 40-kilometer radius.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ionosphere'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of ionosphere
1926
IONOSPHERE Defined for Kids
ionosphere
playDefinition of ionosphere for Students
: the part of the earth's atmosphere beginning at an altitude of about 30 miles (50 kilometers) and extending outward that contains electrically charged particles
Learn More about ionosphere
-
See words that rhyme with ionosphere Spanish Central: Translation of ionosphere Nglish: Translation of ionosphere for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ionosphere
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up ionosphere? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!