Thermal Inversion (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Flashcards
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Define thermal inversion.
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Define thermal inversion.
A thermal inversion is a meteorological event in which a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground.
When do thermal inversions typically occur?
Thermal inversions typically occur during winter nights or early mornings.
Why are thermal inversions more common in winter?
In winter, the ground cools faster than the air above it, leaving cooler air at the surface below warmer air.
True or False?
Thermal inversions can only occur in winter.
False.
Thermal inversions can happen at any time of year, although they are more common in winter.
Thermal inversions are more likely in or areas with minimal wind.
Thermal inversions are more likely in valleys or areas with minimal wind.
Which factors can prevent warm air from rising and cause a thermal inversion?
Cold and warm air masses, high-pressure systems, and topographic characteristics can prevent warm air from rising.
How does daytime heating normally allow pollutants to disperse?
During the day the ground heats up and warms the air above, and this warm air rises, carrying pollutants away.
How does a thermal inversion trap pollutants at night?
At night the ground cools rapidly, cooling the air near the surface, and a layer of warm air above traps this cooler air and its pollutants.
How does a thermal inversion affect visibility and air quality?
A thermal inversion traps smog and particulates close to the ground, leading to poor visibility and poor air quality.
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