If a parcel of air at sea level with a temperature of 30°C and a dew point of 12°C begins to rise up a mountain slope, at what elevation will clouds first begin to form?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As air rises up a mountain slope, it cools at a rate of approximately 1°C per 100 meters of elevation gained. When the parcel of air reaches its dew point temperature, it becomes saturated and water vapor begins to condense to form clouds. The difference between the temperature of the air and its dew point is called the dew point depression, which in this case is 18°C. Dividing the dew point depression by the rate of cooling (18/1=18), we get that clouds will first form at an elevation of approximately 1800 meters. Therefore, C is the best choice.

If a Parcel of Air at Sea Level with a Temperature