What is the dry adiabatic lapse rate?

The dry adiabatic lapse rate describes the rate at which a rising parcel of unsaturated air cools as it ascends in the atmosphere. This cooling occurs due to the decrease in pressure at higher altitudes, which allows the air to expand. For unsaturated air, the rate is approximately 1 degree Celsius for every 100 meters of ascent, or 3 degrees Celsius per 1000 feet. This is the reason why the correct response is that the dry adiabatic lapse rate is 3 C/1000'.

Understanding this concept is crucial for pilots when evaluating weather patterns and making decisions regarding climb performance, altitude changes, and overall flight planning. A solid grasp of how the temperature changes with altitude helps predict cloud formation, turbulence, and potential weather changes. The other choices reflect either a misunderstanding of how temperature lapses with altitude in unsaturated air or refer to different rates not applicable to the dry adiabatic process.