Air Parcel Stability Quiz

What is the main factor that determines whether a Parcel of Air will continue to rise after an initial Lifting Action?

If the atmosphere exhibits 'Absolute' stability, how does it cool in relation to the Moist Adiabatic Lapse Rate as altitude increases?

If the atmosphere exhibits 'Neutral' stability, how does it cool in relation to the Dry or Moist Adiabatic Lapse Rate as altitude increases?

For 'Absolute Instability', how does the atmosphere cool in relation to the Dry Adiabatic Lapse Rate?

Main Factors in Parcel Air Movement

The continued rise of a parcel of air post-initial lifting is primarily determined by its buoyancy compared to the surrounding air.
If a rising parcel remains warmer and less dense than the ambient air, it will continue to ascend.

Absolute Stability

In an atmosphere with absolute stability, the air cools at a rate slower than the Moist Adiabatic Lapse Rate (around 6°C per 1000 meters).
This stability means that the rising parcel of air will cool more than the surrounding air, inhibiting further ascent.

Neutral Stability

Under neutral stability conditions, the atmosphere cools at the same rate as the Dry or Moist Adiabatic Lapse Rate.
Rising air parcels neither rise nor sink further; they maintain their altitude because they are equally buoyant with their environment.

Absolute Instability

In an atmosphere exhibiting absolute instability, air cools faster than the Dry Adiabatic Lapse Rate (approximately 10°C per 1000 meters).
This causes a rising parcel to remain warmer and less dense than its surroundings, allowing for continuous ascent and vigorous convection.

Test your knowledge on factors impacting the stability of air parcels, including density, humidity, and temperature. Also explore the concept of absolute stability in relation to the adiabatic lapse rate.