Question 21
WeatherWhich of the following best explains the decrease in temperature with height within the lower layers of the atmosphere?
- A.The air receives its heat directly from the sun's rays
- B.The earth is the main source of the heat given up to the air
- C.An increase in height is associated with increase in rainfall
- D.There are always water particles in the air at high altitudes
- E.There is little mixing of air at higher altitudes
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B (The earth is the main source of the heat given up to the air)
Explanation
The air is warmed mainly from below by heat radiated from the earth's surface, so it gets colder the further it is from the ground.