Question

Q. With reference to temperature inversion, consider the following statements:

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A.
  1 only
• B.
  2 only
• C.
  Both 1 and 2
• D.
  Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Both 1 and 2
Explanation:

Normally, temperature decreases with increase in elevation. It is called normal lapse rate. At times, the situation is reversed and the normal lapse rate is inverted. It is called Inversion of temperature. Inversion is usually of short duration but quite common nonetheless.

Statement 1 is correct: Over polar areas, temperature inversion is normal throughout the year. This happens due to lack of sunlight in most of the seasons which leads to loss of heat from the surface. Even during the seasons when it is exposed to sunlight, it loses maximum amount of surface heat due to high albedo. This leads to a heat deficit in the area leading to temperature inversion.

Statement 2 is correct: A long winter night with clear skies and still air is an ideal situation for inversion.