What is a temperature inversion?

A temperature inversion refers to a meteorological phenomenon where the normal temperature gradient of the atmosphere is disrupted. Typically, in the troposphere, temperature decreases as altitude increases. However, in a temperature inversion, this relationship is reversed, leading to an increase in temperature with height.

This occurs when a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, which can lead to adverse weather conditions, such as smog and poor air quality. The warm layer prevents the cooler air from rising, which can inhibit vertical mixing in the atmosphere. Thus, the correct answer accurately describes the unique situation where temperature rises as you go higher in altitude, characterizing a temperature inversion effectively.