In which atmospheric layer does most of the Earth's weather occur?

The troposphere is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere and is where nearly all weather phenomena occur. This is primarily due to its proximity to the Earth's surface, which allows it to hold the moisture and heat necessary for weather systems. In the troposphere, processes such as convection, condensation, and precipitation take place, making it vital for the formation of clouds, storms, and other weather-related events.

The troposphere extends from the surface up to an average altitude of about 8 to 15 kilometers, depending on the location, with a greater thickness at the equator and a thinner structure at the poles. As altitude increases within the troposphere, temperature generally decreases, which also contributes to the development of weather patterns.

While the other atmospheric layers, such as the stratosphere, exosphere, and mesosphere, have their characteristics and roles, they either lack the necessary weather-forming processes or are located too high to influence weather events significantly. As a result, the troposphere is distinctly recognized as the layer where the vast majority of weather occurs.