Geography • Physical GeographyHard
With reference to the adiabatic lapse rate in the atmosphere, why does the saturated adiabatic lapse rate have a lower numerical value than the dry adiabatic lapse rate?
A. Condensation of water vapor releases latent heat, which partially offsets the cooling caused by expansion.✓ Correct Answer
B. Saturated air parcels contain fewer gas molecules, reducing internal friction during uplift.
C. Moist air absorbs more solar radiation at high altitudes than dry air due to humidity.
D. Water droplets in saturated air increase the density of the parcel, slowing its ascent.
💡 Solution & Explanation
As a rising moist air parcel cools and reaches its dew point, water vapor condenses into liquid droplets, releasing latent heat of condensation into the surrounding air. This released energy warms the parcel, reducing the net rate of cooling compared to a dry parcel that undergoes expansion without condensation. The dry adiabatic lapse rate is roughly 9.8 degrees Celsius per kilometer, whereas the saturated rate averages around 5 degrees Celsius per kilometer. Latent heat exchange is a core driver of severe storm thermodynamics.
More Geography Physical Geography questions
- Which of the following is a classic example of an intrusive igneous landform that forms a dome-like shape by…
- Which type of volcanic eruption is characterized by highly viscous lava, explosive gas ejections, and the…
- Which coral reef structure develops as a narrow ribbon directly attached to or bordering the shoreline of an…
- Which of the following ocean floor relief features represents a steep-sided, narrow, and deep depression…
- Which of the following glacial features refers to sharp, knife-edge ridges that form when two adjacent…