Question

Based on the discussion of vertical distribution of pressure and temperature in the troposphere from chapter 1, describe, in your own words, the general trends in pressure and temperature data collected by the radiosonde as the balloon ascends through the troposphere.

Answer 1

A radiosonde is a telemetry instrument which lifts up into the atmosphere by a helium or hydrogen-filled weather balloon that measures different atmospheric factors such as relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, temperature, wind speed etc transmits them by radio to a ground receiver. It is often powered by a battery.

As the radiosonde rises, the atmospheric pressure decreases and the balloon expands. This drop in pressure is reflected in the readings of the radiosonde. At certain heights, the pressure is only a tiny part of a thousandth in measurement.

Another factor whose readings drops as is consistent with the laws of physics is temperature. As one goes higher, the temperature drops. Note that the radiosondes ascension is not a perfect vertical. It also drifts and can do so for about 198 kilometers. Meteorologists collect information about windspeed as the device drifts.

Please see the sample radiosonde reading attached.

Cheers!