LAPSE RATE Meaning and
Definition
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Lapse rate, in meteorology and atmospheric science, refers to the rate at which the temperature of the atmosphere changes with an increase in altitude. It quantifies the variation in temperature as one moves vertically through the Earth's atmosphere. The lapse rate is typically expressed in units of degrees Celsius per kilometer (°C/km) or degrees Fahrenheit per 1000 feet (°F/1000 ft).
There are two main types of lapse rates: the environmental lapse rate (ELR) and the adiabatic lapse rate. The environmental lapse rate refers to the actual change in temperature with altitude observed in the atmosphere. It can vary depending on factors such as air composition, pressure, and moisture content.
On the other hand, the adiabatic lapse rate describes the temperature changes that occur in a parcel of air when it rises or descends in the atmosphere without exchanging heat with its surroundings. This rate is determined by the dry adiabatic lapse rate, which assumes the parcel of air is not saturated with water vapor, and the moist adiabatic lapse rate, which accounts for the condensation or evaporation of water vapor in the parcel.
Understanding the lapse rate is vital for weather forecasting, atmospheric studies, and aviation. Significant deviations from the normal lapse rates can indicate changes in stability, the potential for cloud formation, or the presence of atmospheric instability. It plays a crucial role in determining weather patterns, atmospheric convection, and the formation of severe weather phenomena such as thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Common Misspellings for LAPSE RATE
- kapse rate
- papse rate
- oapse rate
- lzpse rate
- lspse rate
- lwpse rate
- lqpse rate
- laose rate
- lalse rate
- la0se rate
- lapae rate
- lapze rate
- lapxe rate
- lapde rate
- lapee rate
- lapwe rate
- lapsw rate
- lapss rate
- lapsd rate
- lapsr rate
Etymology of LAPSE RATE
The word "lapse rate" comes from the combination of two terms: "lapse" and "rate".
The term "lapse" originated from the Latin word "lapsus", which means a slip, failure, or falling. In English, "lapse" refers to a temporary failure or cessation of a particular activity or process. It can also imply a gradual decline or deterioration. In the context of meteorology and atmospheric sciences, the word "lapse" refers to the rate at which a specific atmospheric variable changes with altitude.
The word "rate" comes from the Latin word "ratus", which means to reckon or calculate. It refers to the speed, frequency, or amount of change in a particular quantity over time.
Thus, when combined, "lapse rate" refers to the rate at which a specific atmospheric variable changes or lapses with respect to altitude.
