3.6. Temperature Inversion

Try these first

1. 1.

   What happens to temperature with height during a typical temperature profile?

   Hint

   Think about the normal behavior of air and temperature as you go higher.

2. 2.

   Define a temperature inversion.

   Hint

   Focus on the implications of warmer air above cooler air.

3. 3.

   What is temperature inversion?

   • A decrease in temperature with altitude
   • An increase in temperature with altitude
   • A constant temperature with altitude

   Hint

   Think about how temperature normally behaves with height.

4. 4.

   True or False: Temperature inversions always lead to improved air quality.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how pollutants behave during an inversion.

5. 5.

   Given a scenario where pollution is released during a temperature inversion in a city, analyze the potential health impacts and suggest measures for mitigation.

   Hint

   Consider both short-term and long-term effects on population health.

6. 6.

   Calculate the expected rise of a pollutant from a known specific heat of the air and the temperature gradient present during a temperature inversion.

   Hint

   Refer to the equations that connect specific heat, temperature difference, and altitude.