Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) PracticeTest

At what altitude is the top of the troposphere typically found at the poles?

1. 60,000 feet

2. 20,000 feet

3. 30,000 feet

4. 50,000 feet

The correct answer is: 20,000 feet

The top of the troposphere is typically found at around 20,000 feet at the poles. This altitude can vary based on atmospheric conditions, but at high latitudes, such as the polar regions, the troposphere is thinner compared to equatorial regions. The cold temperatures prevalent at the poles contribute to a compressed vertical atmosphere, thereby resulting in a lower altitude for the troposphere's boundary. In contrast, other regions, especially at the equator, can have the troposphere extending to much greater heights, often reaching altitudes of about 60,000 feet. Therefore, the choice indicating 20,000 feet accurately reflects the specific average altitude of the troposphere at the poles, making it the correct answer.