Adiabatic temperature changes occur even though heat is not added or subtracted from the atmosphere because ________.
A)molecules are either compressed or expanded which changes their motion
B)heat is added in some other form to change the temperature
C)the atmosphere moves into a different temperature strata
D)the ground is heated or cooled and it radiates energy into the adjacent air

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adiabatic temperature changes occur as a result of the compression or expansion of air molecules, which changes their motion and ultimately results in a change in temperature without any heat being added or subtracted from the atmosphere. This process is known as adiabatic heating or cooling and is responsible for the formation of clouds, precipitation, and other atmospheric phenomena. Choices B, C, and D are not correct because they suggest that external factors are involved in the temperature change, whereas adiabatic heating and cooling is an internal process.

Adiabatic Temperature Changes Occur Even Though Heat Is Not Added