1. What is Environmental Lapse Rate?

The environmental lapse rate is the rate at which atmospheric temperature decreases with increasing altitude in the Earth's atmosphere. It's a key concept in meteorology and atmospheric sciences.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the lapse rate formula:

Where:

• \( T1 \) — Temperature at lower height (°C)
• \( T2 \) — Temperature at higher height (°C)
• \( H1 \) — Lower height (km)
• \( H2 \) — Higher height (km)

Explanation: The formula calculates the average temperature change per unit of vertical distance in the atmosphere between two measurement points.

3. Importance of Lapse Rate Calculation

Details: Understanding lapse rates is crucial for weather forecasting, aviation safety, cloud formation studies, and climate modeling. It helps determine atmospheric stability and potential for convection.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperatures in °C and heights in kilometers. Ensure height difference (H2 - H1) is not zero. Typical environmental lapse rate is about 6.5°C/km in the troposphere.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between environmental and adiabatic lapse rates?
A: Environmental lapse rate is the actual temperature profile, while adiabatic rates describe temperature changes of rising/descending air parcels.

Q2: What does a negative lapse rate indicate?
A: A negative lapse rate means temperature increases with altitude (temperature inversion), which is common in certain atmospheric conditions.

Q3: What's the standard environmental lapse rate?
A: The International Standard Atmosphere assumes 6.5°C/km in the troposphere, but actual rates vary with weather and location.

Q4: How does lapse rate affect weather?
A: Steep lapse rates promote vertical air movement and storm development, while shallow rates indicate stable air.

Q5: Why measure in °C/km?
A: This standard unit allows easy comparison across different atmospheric studies and applications.