Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Mean Value Theorem
The Mean Value Theorem states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval and differentiable on the open interval, there exists at least one point where the derivative of the function equals the average rate of change over that interval. In the context of lapse rates, it implies that there is at least one elevation where the instantaneous rate of temperature change matches the average rate calculated between two points.
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Lapse Rate
Lapse rate refers to the rate at which temperature decreases with an increase in altitude in the atmosphere. It is typically expressed in degrees Celsius per kilometer (°C/km). Understanding lapse rates is crucial for analyzing atmospheric conditions, as they can indicate stability or instability in the atmosphere, affecting weather patterns and phenomena.
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Average Rate of Change
The average rate of change of a function over an interval is calculated by taking the difference in the function's values at the endpoints of the interval and dividing it by the difference in the input values. In this case, it helps determine the overall change in temperature between two elevations, which can then be compared to the threshold lapse rate to assess if the instantaneous lapse rate exceeds that value at some point in between.
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