3.5. Environmental Lapse Rate

Try these first

1. 1.

   What happens to temperature as altitude increases in a typical lapse rate?

   Hint

   Think about how the air feels when you go higher up a mountain.

2. 2.

   Define temperature inversion.

   Hint

   Consider what happens on clear, calm nights.

3. 3.

   What is the typical lapse rate?

   • 0°C/km
   • 6.5°C/km
   • 9.8°C/km

   Hint

   It's the standard used in atmospheric science.

4. 4.

   True or False: Temperature inversions can lead to higher concentrations of air pollutants near the surface.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens to air quality in calm nights.

5. 5.

   Consider a scenario where the environmental lapse rate is 4°C/km. If an air parcel rises from a temperature of 20°C at the ground level, will it continue rising or start to sink? Explain your answer.

   Hint

   Compare the parcel's temperature change with the environmental lapse rate.

6. 6.

   A city experiences a temperature inversion where the ground temperature is 15°C and 1000m above it, the temperature is 25°C. Discuss the implications for air quality and pollutant behavior.

   Hint

   Think about how stable air affects movement.