How does temperature change as elevation increases in mountainous areas?

Question

temperature drops by 1 degree per 1,000 feet
temperature decreases by 3.5 degrees per 1,000 feet
temperature increases by 3.5 degrees per 1,000 feet
temperature remains constant at all elevations

Answer 1

In mountainous areas, temperature generally decreases with increasing elevation. The commonly accepted average rate of temperature change with elevation, known as the environmental lapse rate, is approximately 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit per 1,000 feet. Therefore, the correct answer is:

temperature decreases by 3.5 degrees per 1,000 feet.

This means that as you climb higher in altitude, the temperature typically drops by about 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.