-From this graph, estimate the temperature of a parcel of air that has risen to 400 m.
A)26ºC
B)27.5ºC
C)25ºC
D)1.5ºC

Question

-From this graph, estimate the temperature of a parcel of air that has risen to 400 m.
A)26ºC 
B)27.5ºC 
C)25ºC 
D)1.5ºC

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The temperature of a parcel of air that has risen to 400 m can be estimated by following the temperature gradient on the graph. As the air rises, it cools due to expansion in the lower pressure environment. Without seeing the actual graph, a common lapse rate (the rate at which temperature decreases with an increase in altitude) is applied to estimate temperature changes with altitude. Given the choices, 26ºC is a reasonable estimate for air that has not risen significantly in altitude, assuming a starting temperature near the ground is slightly higher and considering a typical environmental lapse rate of about 6.5ºC per 1000m. However, without the graph, this is a speculative explanation based on standard atmospheric conditions.

-From This Graph, Estimate the Temperature of a Parcel of Air