What is the standard temperature lapse rate in lower altitudes?

The standard temperature lapse rate in the lower altitudes of the atmosphere is defined as approximately 3.5°F per 1,000 feet. This rate indicates how temperature decreases with an increase in altitude under standard atmospheric conditions. The principle behind this lapse rate is rooted in the behavior of air pressure and temperature; as altitude increases, the air pressure decreases, leading to a drop in temperature due to the expansion of air parcels as they rise and encounter lower pressure.

Understanding the lapse rate is critical for pilots as it affects aircraft performance, weather conditions, and the calculation of altitude corrections for temperature deviations. This knowledge helps in planning climbs, descents, and understanding how the aircraft will respond in different thermal environments.