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:
“The most distinct and beautiful statement of any truth must take at last the mathematical form.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“The very definition of the real becomes: that of which it is possible to give an equivalent reproduction.... The real is not only what can be reproduced, but that which is always already reproduced. The hyperreal.”
—Jean Baudrillard (b. 1929)