As cold air descends, it warms up and then rises. Why?

1 Answer
Mar 2, 2018

The changes in temperature cause changes in density and therefore buoyancy.

Explanation:

Buoyancy is a function of relative density. The density of air fluctuates with temperature such that cooler air is more dense. Cold air descends because it is more dense than the other air.

When it has arrived in warmer territory, it becomes warmer. Being warmer, the air rises because it is less dense.

I hope this helps,
Steve