What conditions are favorable for the formation of a surface based temperature inversion?

The formation of a surface-based temperature inversion is characterized by a layer of warmer air sitting above a layer of cooler air near the Earth's surface. This phenomenon typically occurs under specific atmospheric conditions. Clear, cool nights with calm or light winds are particularly conducive to the development of temperature inversions.

During a clear night, the ground rapidly loses heat through radiation, cooling the air immediately in contact with it. If there is little to no wind, this cooler air remains close to the surface and does not mix with the slightly warmer air above. As a result, the temperature increases with height above the ground, leading to the inversion layer.

This scenario is in contrast to other conditions, such as unstable air that may lead to rising currents and mixing, which would disrupt the formation of an inversion. Similarly, the presence of cumulus clouds or overcast skies generally prevents significant radiative cooling and stabilizes the lower atmosphere, making it less likely for a temperature inversion to form. Thus, the correct choice highlights the specific conditions that promote the stability and cooling necessary for an inversion to develop effectively.