Adiabatic Lapse Rate

Adiabatic Lapse Rate

The Adiabatic Lapse Rate refers to the rate at which the temperature of the atmosphere changes due to changes in altitude, under conditions of thermal equilibrium. It can be mathematically expressed as the rate of change in atmospheric temperature based on decreases or increases in altitude, without any exchange of heat between the atmosphere and the surrounding environment. This phenomenon occurs because of the expansion or compression of air masses as they move vertically in the atmosphere, resulting in either cooling or heating. The adiabatic lapse rate is an important factor considered in studies related to weather forecasting, atmospheric physics, and climatology. Understanding the concept of adiabatic lapse rate is crucial for predicting the behavior of air masses and for determining the effects of pressure and temperature changes on the atmosphere and the environment.