Meteorology · Stability — Lapse Rate
An atmospheric temperature inversion (temperature increasing with height) tends to produce:
- ARapidly clearing skies and gusty winds
- BViolent convection and thunderstorms
- CStable air that traps moisture and pollutants, favoring fog, haze, and stratiform cloud✓ Correct
- DA steep pressure gradient
Explanation
An inversion is a very stable layer that suppresses vertical motion, trapping moisture, smoke, and haze beneath it. It favors fog and low stratus and can duct radio/radar signals, but inhibits the convection needed for showers.
Authority: Bowditch (Pub. No. 9), atmospheric stability; WMO
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