Theta-e
(or Equivalent Potential Temperature) - The temperature a parcel of air would have if
a) it was lifted until it
became saturated,
b) all water vapor was condensed out, and
c) it was returned adiabatically (i.e., without
transfer of heat or mass) to a pressure of 1000 millibars.
Theta-e, which typically is expressed in degrees
Kelvin, is directly related to the amount of heat present in an air parcel. Thus, it is useful in diagnosing
atmospheric instability.