What is the effect of altitude on the lapse rate?

The choice that indicates temperature decreases steadily with altitude accurately reflects the behavior of the atmosphere, particularly in the troposphere, which is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere. The lapse rate describes this phenomenon, where the temperature typically decreases at a consistent rate as altitude increases up to the tropopause.

This drop in temperature occurs for several reasons, including the decrease in atmospheric pressure and density at higher altitudes, which affects how heat is retained in the air. In the troposphere, the average lapse rate is approximately 6.5 degrees Celsius per kilometer of ascent. This systematic decrease is crucial for weather patterns and influences various atmospheric processes, such as cloud formation and the stability of air layers.

In summary, the steady decrease in temperature with increasing altitude is a fundamental aspect of meteorology, helping to explain not just the behavior of the atmosphere but also its impact on aviation and weather systems.