Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What is the term for the rate at which temperature decreases with an increase in altitude?

1. Lapse Rate

2. Drop Rate

3. Altitude Differential

4. Temperature Gradient

The correct answer is: Lapse Rate

The term that describes the rate at which temperature decreases with an increase in altitude is the lapse rate. This concept is crucial in meteorology and aviation, as it affects weather patterns, cloud formation, and aircraft performance. The lapse rate is usually expressed in degrees Celsius per kilometer or degrees Fahrenheit per thousand feet. Understanding the lapse rate is essential for drone pilots and other aviation professionals. As a drone ascends, the air temperature typically decreases, which can influence the drone's battery performance and lift capabilities due to the changes in air density. Being aware of the lapse rate helps pilots anticipate how altitude changes might impact their flight operations. The other terms, such as drop rate, altitude differential, and temperature gradient, do not specifically define the phenomenon of temperature decrease with altitude in the same context, making lapse rate the appropriate and accurate terminology in this scenario.