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) coriolis force and buoyant force.
D) gravitational force and pressure gradient force.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The buoyant force caused by differences in density in the atmosphere and the gravitational force exerted by the Earth are the two opposing forces that determine the vertical position of a parcel of air. The other options (B, C, and D) are not relevant to the vertical position of air parcels.

The Two Opposing Forces Determining the Vertical Position of a Parcel