In an inversion layer, how does temperature change with height?

In an inversion layer, the temperature increases with height, which is contrary to the typical behavior of the atmosphere where temperature usually decreases with altitude. This phenomenon occurs when a layer of warmer air traps cooler air beneath it.

The presence of the warmer layer aloft inhibits the vertical mixing of air, which can lead to stable conditions in the atmosphere. This stability can result in poor air quality as pollutants accumulate in the cooler air trapped below the inversion. Inversion layers are often associated with clear skies and can form during the night or in specific weather conditions. Understanding this process is crucial for pilots, as it affects both flying conditions and air traffic management.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options describe temperature profiles that do not accurately represent the inversion layer. In standard atmospheric conditions, temperature typically decreases with altitude, so the second option is incorrect. The idea of constant temperature or fluctuations does not apply to the defined characteristics of an inversion layer, which are distinctly defined by the temperature inversion itself.