The point where saturation begins in a rising air parcel is which of the following?
A)The dry adiabatic rate.
B)The moist adiabatic rate.
C)The lifting condensation level.
D)Cloud condensation nuclei.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lifting condensation level (LCL) is the point where saturation begins in a rising air parcel. At this level, the temperature of the rising parcel cools to the dew point temperature and water vapor starts to condense into visible water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds. This level varies depending on the initial temperature and moisture content of the air parcel, and is usually lower than the height at which clouds are observed in the atmosphere. Choice A (the dry adiabatic rate) is the rate at which a parcel of unsaturated air cools as it rises or warms as it sinks, without the addition or removal of moisture. Choice B (the moist adiabatic rate) is the rate at which a parcel of saturated air cools as it rises or warms as it sinks, taking into account the release or absorption of latent heat associated with the condensation or evaporation of water vapor. Choice D (cloud condensation nuclei) are microscopic particles in the atmosphere that serve as the nuclei for the condensation of water vapor into cloud droplets or ice crystals.

The Point Where Saturation Begins in a Rising Air Parcel