The difference between the dry adiabatic rate and the moist adiabatic rate is on account of
A)the latent heat of condensation.
B)altitudinal temperature differences.
C)less atmospheric pressure.
D)the specific heat of water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference between the dry adiabatic rate and the moist adiabatic rate is due to the latent heat of condensation that is released or absorbed during the phase change of water vapor. The dry adiabatic rate assumes that there is no water vapor present to undergo condensation, so it is higher than the moist adiabatic rate, which accounts for the release of latent heat during condensation.

The Difference Between the Dry Adiabatic Rate and the Moist