Question

what happens to a moist air mass as it moves upward in the atmosphere?
a. it becomes warmer and forms clouds.
b. it becomes cooler and forms clouds.
c. its temperature remains the same.
d. its temperature varies greatly.

Explanation:

As air rises in the atmosphere, the pressure decreases. According to the ideal gas law, when pressure decreases and volume increases (for a rising air mass), the temperature of the air mass decreases (adiabatic cooling). Moist air contains water vapor. As the air cools, the water vapor in it condenses around tiny particles (like dust) to form clouds.

Answer:

B. It becomes cooler and forms clouds.