The temperature in a parcel of air is 30 degrees Celsius at sea level and it has a dew-point temperature of 0 degrees Celsius.How high will this unsaturated air parcel have to rise to become saturated?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference between the temperature and the dew point is 30-0=30 degrees Celsius. When an unsaturated air parcel rises, it cools at a rate of approximately 10 degrees Celsius per 1000 meters. Therefore, for this parcel to become saturated, it needs to cool to its dew point temperature. To reach this point, it needs to rise 30/10=3,000 meters. So, the correct choice is (C) 3,000 meters.

The Temperature in a Parcel of Air Is 30 Degrees