The two opposing forces determining the vertical position of a parcel of air are
A)buoyant force and gravitational force.
B)centrifugal force and coriolis force.
C)gravitational force and pressure gradient force.
D)coriolis force and buoyant force.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Buoyant force, which is the upward force resulting from the displacement of air due to heating or cooling, and gravitational force, which is the downward force due to the Earth's gravity, are the two opposing forces that determine the vertical position of a parcel of air. Choice B is incorrect because centrifugal force only affects the horizontal movement of air, while coriolis force influences the direction of air movement. Choice C is incorrect because pressure gradient force is a horizontal force that drives air from areas of high pressure to low pressure. Choice D is incorrect because coriolis force only affects the direction of air movement, while buoyant force determines the vertical positioning.

The Two Opposing Forces Determining the Vertical Position of a Parcel