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Very good – isn’t there a very simple (simplistic?) explanation?

As you move upwards, there are fewer molecules per unit volume. Since it is the molecules that absorb and radiate heat, it follows that the temperature must fall with greater elevation?

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Atmospheric physics is so complicated that you always need to consider all possibilities with great care. About your proposal, yes, as long as you add that it is because in a lower density atmosphere, emitted photons have a higher chance to escape to space.

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Thank you!

P

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Thank you for the blanket-thickness explanation, Ugo.

It is conceptually easy and comfortable.

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