The tropopause is the boundary layer between the troposphere and the stratosphere in Earth's atmosphere. It is located at an altitude that varies from about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) above sea level, depending on geographic location and weather conditions. This layer plays a crucial role in regulating weather patterns and temperature. At the tropopause, the temperature stabilizes and stops decreasing with altitude, which is characteristic of the troposphere. Above this layer, in the stratosphere, temperatures begin to rise again. The tropopause also acts as a barrier, preventing most weather phenomena from moving into the stratosphere.