The moist adiabatic rate is different from the dry adiabatic rate because:
A)an unstable air parcel expands more rapidly.
B)latent heat is released inside a parcel of rising saturated air.
C)saturated air is always unstable.
D)a parcel of saturated air weighs less than a parcel of unsaturated air.
E)unsaturated air is always stable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The moist adiabatic rate is different from the dry adiabatic rate because of the release of latent heat inside a parcel of rising saturated air. As the parcel rises and cools, the water vapor inside condenses into liquid droplets, releasing heat into the parcel. This added heat slows the cooling rate and results in a less steep slope than the dry adiabatic rate. Therefore, the correct answer is B, latent heat is released inside a parcel of rising saturated air.

The Moist Adiabatic Rate Is Different from the Dry Adiabatic