weather theoryFAA-published sample question (PAR, Aug 2021)
When there is a temperature inversion, you would expect to experience
A
clouds with extensive vertical development above an inversion aloft.
B
good visibility in the lower levels of the atmosphere and poor visibility above an inversion aloft.
C
an increase in temperature as altitude increases.✓ Correct Answer
Explanation
A temperature inversion is by definition a layer in which temperature increases as altitude increases (PHAK Ch. 12). The warm layer on top acts as a lid on stable air, trapping haze, smoke and fog, so visibility is typically poor below the inversion and better above it, the reverse of the other visibility statement. Inversions go with stable air, not with clouds of extensive vertical development.
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