Why do you need a steep vertical temperature gradient in the atmosphere in order to get hurricane development?
A) If the atmosphere warms quickly with increasing altitude then the humidity will go up.
B) If the atmosphere warms quickly with increasing altitude then the surface air can continue to rise.
C) If the atmosphere cools quickly with increasing altitude then the humidity of the air will decrease.
D) If the atmosphere cools quickly with increasing altitude then the surface air can continue to rise.
E) If the temperature in the atmosphere changes continuously then it will cause turbulence in the air stream.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A steep vertical temperature gradient, where the atmosphere cools quickly with increasing altitude, allows surface air to continue rising. This is because cooler air aloft is denser and can sink, creating a cycle that supports the upward movement of warm, moist air from the surface, which is a critical process in hurricane development.

Why Do You Need a Steep Vertical Temperature Gradient in the Atmosphere