Question

When the ambient lapse rate exceeds the adiabatic lapse rate, the ambient lapse rate is called the:

• A. Dry adiabatic lapse rate
• B. Super adiabatic lapse rate
• C. Saturated adiabatic lapse rate
• D. Sub-adiabatic lapse rate

Hint:

Super-adiabatic conditions indicate strong atmospheric instability and enhanced vertical mixing.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding lapse rate.
Lapse rate is the rate at which atmospheric temperature decreases with an increase in altitude. Ambient lapse rate refers to the actual temperature gradient of the atmosphere.
Step 2: Comparing with adiabatic lapse rate.
The adiabatic lapse rate represents the rate of temperature change of a rising or falling air parcel without heat exchange. When the ambient lapse rate is greater than the adiabatic lapse rate, the atmosphere becomes highly unstable.
Step 3: Analyzing the options.
(A) Incorrect, this is a standard adiabatic reference rate.
(B) Correct, exceeding the adiabatic rate is termed super-adiabatic.
(C) Incorrect, this applies to saturated air conditions.
(D) Incorrect, sub-adiabatic means less than adiabatic.
Step 4: Conclusion.
When the ambient lapse rate exceeds the adiabatic lapse rate, it is known as the super adiabatic lapse rate.