Latent instability
Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-006889
An atmospheric condition where a parcel of air, though stable when unsaturated, becomes unstable and rises buoyantly if lifted to its lifting condensation level and then further lifted while saturated. This instability is released when the latent heat of condensation warms the parcel, making it warmer than its surroundings. It is a common precursor to the development of thunderstorms.
| Identifier | MLC-T-MET-006889 |
|---|---|
| Field | Meteorology and atmospheric science |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-MET-006889",
"term": "Latent instability",
"field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
"definition": "An atmospheric condition where a parcel of air, though stable when unsaturated, becomes unstable and rises buoyantly if lifted to its lifting condensation level and then further lifted while saturated. This instability is released when the latent heat of condensation warms the parcel, making it warmer than its surroundings. It is a common precursor to the development of thunderstorms.",
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/latent-instability/"
}
Record 5,463 of 10,816 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.