If air at seal level with a temperature of 27C is forced up a mountain slope and the air's dew point at the condensation level is 14C at what elevation will condensation begin?
To determine the elevation at which condensation will begin, we need to understand how temperature changes with increasing altitude. The rate at which temperature decreases with altitude is called the lapse rate. Generally, the average lapse rate for dry air is 6.5°C per kilometer. However, the lapse rate can vary and is influenced by various factors such as humidity, terrain, and weather conditions.
In this case, we know the temperature at sea level (27°C) and the dew point temperature (14°C) at the condensation level. The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated when cooled, and condensation occurs.
To find the elevation at which condensation begins, we need to calculate the difference between the temperature at sea level and the dew point and divide it by the lapse rate. Here's the step-by-step process:
1. Calculate the temperature difference: ΔT = Temperature at sea level - Dew point temperature
ΔT = 27°C - 14°C = 13°C
2. Divide the temperature difference by the lapse rate: Elevation = ΔT / Lapse rate
Elevation = 13°C / 6.5°C per km = 2 km
Therefore, condensation will begin at an elevation of 2 kilometers above sea level. It's important to note that this calculation assumes a standard lapse rate, and actual conditions may vary.