Chapter 31, Problem 7RQ

When a parcel of air rises, does it become warmer, become cooler, or remain at the same temperature?

To determine

Whether the parcel of air rises become warmer, cooler, or remain at the same temperature.

Answer to Problem 7RQ

The parcel of air rises becomes warmer.

Explanation of Solution

The density of the air reduces as the temperature increases as the high-density air lowers down during the low-density air rise in the upward direction. This concludes that the air at high altitudes is hotter than the air at low altitudes.

As the parcel of air rises, thus increases the altitude of the parcel will increase the temperature of the parcel of air. Thus, the parcel of air rises becomes warmer.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the parcel of air rises becomes warmer.