What is the relationship between temperature and altitude in the troposphere?

In the troposphere, which is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, the relationship between temperature and altitude is such that temperature decreases as altitude increases. This phenomenon occurs due to the way that the atmosphere is heated. Most of the warming of the atmosphere happens at the surface, largely because the Earth absorbs sunlight and then radiates heat. As you rise in altitude, the density of the air decreases, and there are fewer air molecules to absorb and retain heat, resulting in lower temperatures at higher elevations.

This temperature gradient is significant in weather formation and climate dynamics, as it influences air movement and the formation of clouds, storms, and other meteorological phenomena. Understanding this relationship is crucial for pilots and meteorologists when predicting weather patterns and planning flight paths.