Mathematical Definition
In general, a lapse rate is the negative of the rate of temperature change with altitude change, thus:
where is the lapse rate given in units of temperature divided by units of altitude, T = temperature, and z = altitude.
Note: In some cases, or can be used to represent the adiabatic lapse rate in order to avoid confusion with other terms symbolized by, such as the specific heat ratio or the psychrometric constant.
Read more about this topic: Lapse Rate
Famous quotes containing the words mathematical and/or definition:
“It is by a mathematical point only that we are wise, as the sailor or the fugitive slave keeps the polestar in his eye; but that is sufficient guidance for all our life. We may not arrive at our port within a calculable period, but we would preserve the true course.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“It is very hard to give a just definition of love. The most we can say of it is this: that in the soul, it is a desire to rule; in the spirit, it is a sympathy; and in the body, it is but a hidden and subtle desire to possess—after many mysteries—what one loves.”
—François, Duc De La Rochefoucauld (1613–1680)