Temperature inversion

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-011852",
  "term": "Temperature inversion",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "An atmospheric condition where a layer of cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, contrary to the typical decrease in temperature with increasing altitude. This stable atmospheric structure inhibits vertical mixing, leading to the accumulation of pollutants near the ground. Inversions can be caused by radiative cooling of the surface or by subsidence of air masses.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and the Environment",
  "see_also": [
    "encounter",
    "inversion",
    "trapping"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1990, 62, 2167. 'Glossary of atmospheric chemistry terms (Recommendations 1990)' on page 2197 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199062112167)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/temperature-inversion/"
}