Calculating CAPE

[supercell1970]

I am having trouble programming CAPE (Convective Available Potential Energy).
I am designing a weather program in VBA than can, although seemingly impossible, calculate
CAPE values based on ELR temperatures and Parcel Temperatures lifted thermodynamically
from the ground up, without a weather balloon. But when calculated, the program displays CAPE as
a negative number, such as -1400 Joules/Kilogram. If it were positive, it would be correct. What can
be an alternative?

[Aslkahuna]

Recheck your equations and make sure all of the signs are correct.

Steve

[Ed Mahmoud]

How does one get the lapse rate without a balloon sounding or computer generated sounding?

Just curious.

[wall_cloud]

Is it possible that you have the ELR temperatures and Parcel Temperatures transposed in your equation?

[MGC]

Perhaps you must use absolue value in your calculations......MGC

[supercell1970]

The formulas I am using are based on a constant known as the average Environmental Lapse Rate. The adiabatic lapse rate for dry air is approximately 5.4 degrees F for every 1000 Ft. in geometric altitude, while the lapse rate for saturated air is roughly 3.6 degrees F every 1000 Ft. The thermodynamics seem different but this is only a hypothetical assumption. I combine weather wisdom along with the true science of meteorology to teach the computer a more statistically accurate weather forecast. If my theory is correct, then I may be able to teach a machine weather instincts. I somehow have been more than 95% accurate in predicting severe weather than the National Weather Service in League City Texas. With more help from experts, I am certain I can achieve success.