Elevation Temperature Calculator

Elevation Temperature Formula:

\[ T = T_{sea} - 6.5 \times \left(\frac{elevation}{1000}\right) \]

Temperature at Elevation:

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1. What is the Elevation Temperature Formula?

The elevation temperature formula estimates the temperature at a given elevation based on the sea level temperature. It uses the standard atmospheric lapse rate of 6.5°C per 1000 meters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the elevation temperature formula:

\[ T = T_{sea} - 6.5 \times \left(\frac{elevation}{1000}\right) \]

Where:

\( T \) — Temperature at elevation (°C)
\( T_{sea} \) — Sea level temperature (°C)
\( elevation \) — Elevation above sea level (meters)
6.5 — Standard atmospheric lapse rate (°C per 1000m)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the typical decrease in temperature with increasing elevation in the troposphere.

3. Importance of Elevation Temperature Calculation

Details: Understanding temperature changes with elevation is crucial for weather prediction, aviation, mountaineering, and ecological studies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter sea level temperature in °C and elevation in meters. The elevation must be a positive number.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the lapse rate always 6.5°C per 1000m?
A: No, this is an average value. Actual lapse rates can vary depending on atmospheric conditions.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a general estimate but doesn't account for local weather patterns, humidity, or other microclimate factors.

Q3: Does this work for all elevations?
A: It's most accurate for elevations within the troposphere (up to about 11,000m at mid-latitudes).

Q4: Why does temperature decrease with elevation?
A: As air rises, it expands due to lower pressure, which causes it to cool adiabatically.

Q5: Can I use this for temperature inversion situations?
A: No, temperature inversions (where temperature increases with height) require different calculations.