What often occurs as a result of an inversion layer in high-pressure systems?

The presence of an inversion layer in high-pressure systems often leads to the formation of stratiform clouds that can trap pollutants such as smoke and fog. An inversion layer is characterized by a stable atmosphere where warmer air overlays cooler air near the surface, preventing vertical mixing of the atmosphere. This stability can lead to stagnant conditions where pollutants accumulate close to the ground instead of dispersing into the upper atmosphere. As a result, moisture in the air may condense into stratiform clouds, which create overcast conditions rather than allowing for the usual development of convective systems that lead to precipitation.

This phenomenon is particularly significant in urban areas where human activity generates smoke and other pollutants, leading to poor air quality and visibility issues due to the trapping effect of the clouds. Inversions generally suppress convection, which is why increased thunderstorms and rapid temperature fluctuations are less likely in these stable conditions. The clear skies that occasionally appear can happen but are not the norm during inversion layers; instead, they are typically associated with high pressure in other contexts. Thus, the formation of stratiform clouds trapping smoke and fog aligns accurately with what is observed in these atmospheric conditions.