What effect does entrainment have on a rising parcel of air?

Entrainment refers to the process by which surrounding air mixes into a rising column of air, such as in a cloud or convective system. When a rising parcel of air entrains more surrounding air, particularly from the environment, it usually takes in air that is cooler and less buoyant than the parcel itself. As this cooler air mixes with the rising air, it causes the overall temperature of the parcel to decrease. A decrease in temperature often leads to a reduction in buoyancy, as buoyancy is directly related to the temperature and density differences between the rising parcel and the surrounding environment.

When the temperature of the rising air decreases due to entrainment, it becomes less buoyant relative to the surrounding air. This combination of cooler air and reduced buoyancy can impede the upward motion of the parcel and can potentially lead to the parcel sinking if it becomes denser than the surrounding air. Thus, entrainment generally decreases the buoyancy of a rising parcel of air.