weather theoryFAA-published question bank (Private Pilot, 2008)
What measurement can be used to determine the stability of the atmosphere?
A
Atmospheric pressure.
B
Actual lapse rate.✓ Correct Answer
C
Surface temperature.
Explanation
Stability is determined by comparing the actual (ambient) lapse rate with the adiabatic rates: the faster the temperature decreases with height, the less stable the air (PHAK Chapter 12). Pressure or surface temperature alone does not reveal stability.
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