3.1. Environmental Lapse Rate and Adiabatic Lapse Rate

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define Environmental Lapse Rate.

   Hint

   Think of how it relates to height in the atmosphere.

2. 2.

   What is the approximate value of the Adiabatic Lapse Rate?

   Hint

   Recall the standard rate used in adiabatic processes.

3. 3.

   What causes the Environmental Lapse Rate to vary?

   • A) Constant regardless of conditions
   • B) Influenced by weather and terrain
   • C) Always equal to Adiabatic Lapse Rate

   Hint

   Think about natural influences on temperature in the atmosphere.

4. 4.

   The Adiabatic Lapse Rate is approximately how much per kilometer?

   Hint

   Remember the specific value often used in meteorological calculations.

5. 5.

   A hot air balloon ascends in a region with a 1°C/100m environmental lapse rate. If the ground temperature is 25°C, how high can the balloon ascend before its temperature equals the surrounding air temperature?

   Hint

   Calculate how far it can rise until its temperature matches the ELR.

6. 6.

   Consider a polluted urban area with a steep environmental lapse rate. What would be the implications for local air quality during peak heat times?

   Hint

   Analyze the behavior of pollutants in reaction to changing temperature and stability.