The updrafts in thunderstorms are initiated by thermal instabilities at the surface. What process tends to increase the vertical instability that feeds the thunderstorm development?
A) low pressure aloft
B) a jet stream aloft
C) Coriolis forces
D) release of latent heat by condensation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The release of latent heat by condensation increases the temperature of the surrounding air, making it less dense and more buoyant. This, in turn, enhances the updrafts and vertical instability necessary for thunderstorm development. The other options (A, B, and C) may affect the atmospheric conditions that contribute to thunderstorm development, but they do not directly increase the vertical instability that feeds the storm.

The Updrafts in Thunderstorms Are Initiated by Thermal Instabilities at the Surface