Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

What weather conditions are typically expected beneath a low-level temperature inversion with high humidity?

1. Light wind shear and poor visibility

2. Smooth air and poor visibility due to fog or haze

3. Turbulent air and good visibility

4. Clear air and high visibility

The correct answer is: Smooth air and poor visibility due to fog or haze

The correct response highlights the atmospheric characteristics commonly associated with low-level temperature inversions under high humidity conditions. During such inversions, a layer of warmer air traps cooler air closer to the surface, which can lead to stagnant conditions. High humidity increases the likelihood of moisture in the air, contributing to the formation of fog, haze, or clouds. This results in reduced visibility, as the moisture particles scatter light, impairing the clarity of the atmosphere. Additionally, the smooth air generally found beneath an inversion does not promote mixing, further contributing to the fog or haze, which can limit flight operations. Options that suggest turbulent air or clear conditions with high visibility do not accurately reflect the phenomenon of low-level inversions. Such conditions usually prevent turbulence due to the stability created by the inversion layer, and clear air is not typically observed due to the significant humidity and moisture present.