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Meteorological Calculation

Dry Potential Temperature

Compare dry-air temperatures after an idealized adiabatic adjustment to 1000 hPa.

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Dry potential temperature (K)
293.15
Reference pressure (hPa)
1,000
Introduction & principle

θ=(T+273.15)(1000/P)^0.2854, in kelvin. This dry Poisson approximation omits condensation and moisture effects; it is not equivalent potential temperature. Input temperature −100–60°C and pressure 100–1100 hPa.

Worked example

20°C at 1000 hPa returns 293.15 K. At 800 hPa the dry potential temperature is higher than the input absolute temperature.

Detailed usage guide
  1. 1Enter air temperature in °C and pressure in hPa.
  2. 2Read θ in kelvin at the fixed 1000 hPa reference.
  3. 3Use it only for the dry idealization; do not treat it as a local surface forecast.
Common problems & FAQ

Is this equivalent potential temperature?

No. This is dry potential temperature. Equivalent potential temperature includes moisture and latent heat and requires another method.

Methods & references

Method reviewed November 4, 2026. These tools support learning and recording, not safety-critical decisions.

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