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Chapter 7: Problem 19

Why is there a difference between the dry adiabatic rate (DAR) and the moist adiabatic rate (MAR)?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The difference between DAR and MAR is due to the latent heat released during condensation in saturated air. This heat release reduces the rate of cooling in rising air parcels, causing the moist adiabatic rate to be less than the dry adiabatic rate.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the term 'Adiabatic'

Adiabatic process is a term used in thermodynamics to describe a process where no heat is gained or lost in the system. This concept is common in meteorology to describe how air changes temperature as it rises and falls in the atmosphere.
02

Understand Dry Adiabatic Rate (DAR)

Dry adiabatic rate (DAR) applies when the air is not saturated - that is, when it contains less than the maximum amount of water vapor. In the DAR, the temperature of a parcel of air changes by 1°C per 100 meters as it rises or falls.
03

Understand Moist Adiabatic Rate (MAR)

Moist adiabatic rate (MAR) applies when the air is saturated – that is, it contains the maximum water vapor. The MAR is less than the DAR because as saturated air rises, the water vapor in it condenses and releases heat, which slows the cooling rate.
04

Identify the Difference

The key difference between DAR and MAR is due to the latent heat released during condensation when air is saturated. This heat release reduces the rate of cooling in rising air parcels, leading to a lower MAR than DAR. In simple words, the rate of temperature change is less when the air is saturated compared to when it is unsaturated.

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