Chapter 31, Problem 17RQ

What are the three main atmospheric lifting mechanisms?

To determine

The three main atmospheric lifting mechanisms

Answer to Problem 17RQ

The three main atmospheric lifting mechanisms are orthographic lifting, convergence lifting, and convective lifting.

Explanation of Solution

Air lifting is required for producing clouds and rain. There are three main types of a lifting mechanism that lift and causes the air to rise, they are Orthographic lifting, convergence lifting, and convective lifting.

The movement of air in the vertically upward direction leads to its cooling. And if the temperature of cold air reaches below its dew point temperature, clouds form and precipitation occurs. Orthographic lifting mechanisms lift the air to a height, where it cools adiabatically and form clouds.

In convection lifting mechanism, the air is heated by the surface (due to conduction), which is in direct exposure of the sun rays. The heated air moves upward as it becomes less dense after losing some of its moisture contents. In contrast, convergence lifting is based on the squeezing effect of the air, when the air near the surface flow together and lifts up. Due to these lifting mechanisms, the air drifts upward irrespective of gravity effect.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the three main atmospheric lifting mechanisms are Orthographic lifting, convergence lifting, and convective lifting.