Physics

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Altitude Temperature Calculator.

Estimate temperature with a linear standard-atmosphere lapse-rate model.

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temperature: 281.65

temperature

281.650000

Use Cases

Estimate temperature at altitude for outdoor activities

Plan for hiking, flying, or ballooning by estimating the temperature at your target altitude. Input the sea-level temperature and a typical lapse rate to get a quick reference.

Example: If sea-level temperature is 288 K and lapse rate is 0.0065 K/m, at 3000 m the temperature is about 268.5 K.

Educational demonstration of lapse rate effects

Use the calculator to see how changing the lapse rate affects temperature with altitude. It's a simple way to understand the linear model in atmospheric science classes.

Example: Compare temperatures at 5000 m with lapse rates of 0.005 and 0.01 K/m.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the altitude temperature calculator do?
It estimates the temperature at a given altitude using a linear lapse-rate model. You input the altitude in meters, the sea-level temperature in Kelvin, and the lapse rate in K/m, and it calculates the temperature assuming a constant decrease with altitude.
What is the standard lapse rate used in this calculator?
The calculator allows you to input any lapse rate in K/m. For the standard atmosphere, the typical lapse rate is about 0.0065 K/m (or 6.5 K per km). You can use that value or adjust it based on your conditions.
Can I use this calculator for altitudes above the troposphere?
The linear lapse-rate model is most accurate for the troposphere (up to about 11 km). Above that, the temperature profile changes, so the estimate may be less accurate. The calculator is a simple reference tool, not a substitute for detailed atmospheric models.

Tips & Common Mistakes

Tips

  • Ensure the sea-level temperature is in Kelvin (K). To convert from Celsius, add 273.15.
  • The lapse rate is typically positive (temperature decreases with altitude). Use a negative value if you want to model an inversion.
  • For standard atmosphere, use a lapse rate of 0.0065 K/m for altitudes up to 11 km.
  • Remember that this is a linear model; actual atmospheric conditions may vary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Celsius instead of Kelvin for sea-level temperature, which leads to incorrect results.
  • Entering the lapse rate in K/km instead of K/m. The calculator expects K/m, so divide by 1000 if needed.
  • Assuming the model is accurate for very high altitudes (above the troposphere) where the lapse rate changes.

Last updated: August 13, 2026