1. What is Lapse Rate?

The lapse rate is the rate at which atmospheric temperature decreases with increasing altitude. It's a key concept in meteorology and atmospheric sciences, helping to understand atmospheric stability and weather patterns.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the lapse rate formula:

Where:

• \( T_{\text{ground}} \) — Ground level temperature (°C)
• \( T_{\text{alt}} \) — Temperature at altitude (°C)
• \( \text{Altitude} \) — Height difference between measurements (km)

Explanation: The equation calculates the temperature change per unit of vertical distance in the atmosphere.

3. Importance of Lapse Rate

Details: Lapse rate is crucial for understanding atmospheric stability, predicting weather patterns, aviation safety, and studying climate change. Different lapse rates indicate different atmospheric conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperatures in °C and altitude in kilometers. Ensure altitude is greater than zero for valid calculations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the environmental lapse rate?
A: The actual rate at which temperature decreases with altitude in the atmosphere, typically about 6.5°C per km on average.

Q2: What's the difference between dry and wet adiabatic lapse rates?
A: Dry adiabatic lapse rate (~9.8°C/km) occurs in unsaturated air, while wet adiabatic lapse rate (~5°C/km) occurs in saturated air due to latent heat release.

Q3: What does a negative lapse rate indicate?
A: A negative lapse rate (temperature increasing with altitude) is called an inversion, often associated with stable atmospheric conditions.

Q4: How does lapse rate affect cloud formation?
A: When environmental lapse rate exceeds adiabatic lapse rate, air parcels become buoyant, leading to vertical motion and potential cloud formation.

Q5: Why measure lapse rate in °C per km?
A: This standard unit allows easy comparison between different locations and atmospheric conditions.