Chapter 31, Problem 9RQ

To determine

The definition of the temperature inversion and its location.

Answer to Problem 9RQ

A layer of the cool air at the surface overlain by the layer of the warmer air in the region of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface is known as a temperature inversion and it is seen above the lakes.

Explanation of Solution

A layer of the cool air at the overlain's surface by the layer of the warmer air in the region of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface is known as a temperature inversion. This occurs when a rising parcel of air continues to rise as long as it is warmer and less dense than the surrounding air. But on the other hand, air that is cooler and denser than its surroundings sinks. Under some conditions, they remain at low elevation. This results in the air above that to be warmer.

The temperature inversion is seen above the lakes where gases come out in layer above the lake rather than rise in the atmosphere.

Conclusion:

Therefore, a layer of the cool air at the surface overlain by the layer of the warmer air in the region of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface is known as a temperature inversion and it is seen above the lakes.