Thermal inversion is an atmospheric phenomenon very common in large industrialized urban centers, especially those located in areas surrounded by mountains or mountains. This process occurs when cold (denser) air is prevented from circulating through a layer of warm (less dense) air, causing a change in temperature.
Another aggravating factor of thermal inversion is that the cold air layer is retained in regions close to the earth's surface with a high concentration of pollutants. Thus, the dispersion of these pollutants is extremely impaired, forming a gray layer, coming from the gases emitted by industries, automobiles, etc.
This phenomenon is intensified during the winter, because at this time of year, due to heat loss, the air near the surface it is cooler than the top layer, directly influencing its movement. The pluviometric index (rainfall) is also lower during the winter, a fact that makes it difficult to disperse polluting gases.
It is important to emphasize that thermal inversion is a natural phenomenon, being registered in rural areas with a low degree of industrialization. However, its intensification and its harmful effects are due to the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, which is very common in large cities.
Respiratory diseases, eye irritation and poisoning are some of the consequences of the concentration of pollutants in the air layer close to the ground. Among the possible measures to minimize the damage generated by thermal inversion are the use of biofuels, inspection of industries, reduction of fires and more effective environmental policies.
By Wagner de Cerqueira and Francisco
Graduated in Geography
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/geografia/inversao-termica.htm