The difference between the "moist" and "dry" adiabatic rates is due to
A) the fact that saturated air is always unstable.
B) the fact that an unsaturated air parcel expands more rapidly than a saturated air parcel.
C) the fact that moist air weighs less than dry air.
D) the fact that latent heat is released by a rising parcel of saturated air.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference between the "moist" and "dry" adiabatic rates is due to the fact that latent heat is released by a rising parcel of saturated air. As a parcel of saturated air rises, it cools and water vapor begins to condense, releasing latent heat. This heat release slows the cooling rate of the parcel, resulting in a lower adiabatic rate than for a dry parcel of air.

The Difference Between the "Moist" and "Dry" Adiabatic Rates Is