Lapse Rate and Ground Temperature Relationship in Constant Conditions

[TheMathNoob]

Homework Statement

If the skin temperature and altitude are constant, and the lapse rate increases from 5.5˚C/km to 6.5˚C/km, the ground temperature:

A) increases
B) decreases
C) remains unchanged
D) is never constant

Homework Equations

lapse rate=-dT/dh

The Attempt at a Solution

I think it would decrease because the only way to change the lapse rate without changing the skin altitude and skin temperature is by decreasing the ground temperature.

 

[RUber]

Your relevant equation seems to be for the lapse rate given by change in temp per unit of altitude.
All things equal, you are saying that in one case, your skin is losing 5.5˚C for each km gained in altitude, and in the second case, your skin is losing heat faster (6.5˚C for each km gained in altitude).
Thus, there must be something different in the second case which draws more heat from your skin, so I concur with your solution.