Cloud Formation

cloud formation and the water cycle

what is adiabatic expansion?

• air parcel rises + expands without exchanging heat with surroundings

• rises, pressure decreases in atmosphere, air expands = it cools without heat being added/removed

how do clouds form?

• water vapour in the air cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals

what cycle is cloud formation a part of?

• the water cycle, which includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation and collection

what is the lapse rate?

the rate at which air cools as it rises

what is the dry adiabatic lapse rate (DALR)?

• 10°C per 1000m when air isn’t saturated (reached dew point)

what is the saturated adiabatic lapse rate (SALR)?

• 5-6°C per 1000m because condensation releases heat

when does condensation begin in rising air?

• when the air cools to its dew point

what is the lifting condensation level (LCL)?

• the height at which rising air cools to its dew point and condensation begins, forming clouds