Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

For every 100 meters increase in altitude, how much does the temperature decrease?

1. 0.5 degrees Celsius

2. 1 degree Celsius

3. 1.5 degrees Celsius

4. 2 degrees Celsius

The correct answer is: 1 degree Celsius

The correct response is that for every 100 meters increase in altitude, the temperature typically decreases by about 1 degree Celsius. This phenomenon is known as the environmental lapse rate. In the lower atmosphere, as one ascends in altitude, the air pressure decreases, which leads to a decrease in temperature. This lapse rate is a fundamental concept in meteorology and is important for understanding how altitude impacts weather patterns and climate. The general rule of thumb is that the lapse rate can range from 0.5 to 2 degrees Celsius per 100 meters, but the average commonly accepted rate is approximately 1 degree Celsius. This understanding is crucial for the Certified Transport Registered Nurse, as it can affect patient care in various altitude-related medical situations, including movement and evacuation in cases of altitude sickness or other related conditions.