1. What Is Environmental Lapse Rate?

Environmental Lapse Rate (ELR) refers to the rate at which atmospheric temperature decreases with an increase in altitude. It is a key parameter in meteorology and atmospheric sciences.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Environmental Lapse Rate formula:

Where:

• \( dT \) — Temperature change (K)
• \( dz \) — Height change (m)

Explanation: The negative sign indicates that temperature decreases with increasing altitude. The result is expressed in Kelvin per meter (K/m).

3. Importance Of ELR Calculation

Details: Calculating environmental lapse rate is essential for understanding atmospheric stability, predicting weather patterns, and studying climate change effects on temperature profiles.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature change in Kelvin and height change in meters. Ensure dz is not zero to avoid division by zero errors.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical environmental lapse rate value?
A: The average environmental lapse rate is approximately 6.5°C per kilometer, or 0.0065 K/m.

Q2: How does ELR differ from adiabatic lapse rate?
A: Environmental lapse rate describes the actual temperature profile, while adiabatic lapse rate refers to the temperature change of a parcel of air rising or descending adiabatically.

Q3: Why is the negative sign important in the formula?
A: The negative sign indicates the inverse relationship between temperature and altitude - temperature decreases as altitude increases.

Q4: What factors can affect environmental lapse rate?
A: Factors include time of day, season, latitude, weather conditions, and proximity to large bodies of water or urban areas.

Q5: How is ELR used in weather forecasting?
A: Meteorologists use ELR to determine atmospheric stability, predict cloud formation, and assess potential for thunderstorm development.