inversions Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is an inversion in meteorology?
An inversion is a layer of the atmosphere where temperature increases with altitude, contrary to the usual decrease.
True or False: Inversions can trap pollutants close to the ground.
True
Which type of inversion occurs on clear nights when the ground cools rapidly?
Radiation inversion
Fill in the blank: An inversion can lead to reduced visibility due to _______.
Fog or haze
What is the primary effect of a temperature inversion on weather patterns?
It can stabilize the atmosphere and suppress vertical mixing.
Which of the following is NOT a type of inversion? A) Radiation B) Frontal C) Turbulent D) Subsidence
C) Turbulent
True or False: Inversions are more common during the day than at night.
False
What happens to cloud formation in the presence of a strong inversion?
Cloud formation is often suppressed.
What is the effect of a subsidence inversion?
It occurs when air descends and warms, creating a stable layer.
Which weather phenomenon is commonly associated with temperature inversions?
Smog
Multiple choice: Which inversion type is associated with a cold front? A) Radiation B) Frontal C) Surface D) Warm
B) Frontal
Fill in the blank: Inversions can lead to the development of _______ clouds.
Stratus
True or False: A temperature inversion can enhance the risk of icing for aircraft.
True
What is the typical altitude range for temperature inversions?
From the surface up to several thousand feet.
Which of the following is a characteristic of a surface inversion? A) Warm air at the surface B) Cold air at the surface C) High winds
B) Cold air at the surface
Multiple choice: What is the main cause of radiation inversions? A) Cloud cover B) Ground cooling C) Warm air advection D) Front passage
B) Ground cooling
Fill in the blank: When an inversion layer is present, the air above is often _______ than the air below.
Warmer
What is the primary hazard of flying through an inversion layer?
Sudden changes in altitude and potential turbulence.
True or False: Inversions are always associated with stable weather conditions.
False
What can pilots use to detect the presence of an inversion?
Temperature and dew point spread measurements.
Multiple choice: Which type of inversion is often found in valleys? A) Radiation B) Subsidence C) Frontal D) All of the above
A) Radiation
Fill in the blank: The presence of an inversion can lead to _______ turbulence.
Clear air
What is the effect of a frontal inversion on weather?
It can lead to precipitation as warm air rises over cold air.
True or False: Inversions can enhance the development of thunderstorms.
False