As altitude increases, which statement is true about temperature?

As altitude increases, which statement is true about temperature?

• A. Increases
• B. Decreases
• C. Remains constant
• D. Varies randomly

Answer: (B)

Temperature falls with altitude in the lower atmosphere. In the troposphere, where most drones operate, the air becomes thinner and holds less heat as you rise, so the temperature generally decreases about 6.5°C per kilometer (roughly 3.5°F per 1,000 feet), though the exact rate varies with weather. This cooling trend happens because the surface is the primary heat source and the upper air receives less direct heating. Note that higher up, in the stratosphere, the temperature can rise with altitude due to ozone absorption, but for typical drone operating ranges the common pattern is cooling with height.

Temperature falls with altitude in the lower atmosphere. In the troposphere, where most drones operate, the air becomes thinner and holds less heat as you rise, so the temperature generally decreases about 6.5°C per kilometer (roughly 3.5°F per 1,000 feet), though the exact rate varies with weather. This cooling trend happens because the surface is the primary heat source and the upper air receives less direct heating. Note that higher up, in the stratosphere, the temperature can rise with altitude due to ozone absorption, but for typical drone operating ranges the common pattern is cooling with height.