3. Stability

Changing Stability » Vertical Motion Subsidence Inversions

Conceptual animation showing formation of a subsidence inversion

A subsidence inversion is produced by the adiabatic warming of air as it sinks. If the initial, pre-subsidence lapse rate is substantially less than dry adiabatic, an inversion quickly forms at the base of the subsident layer. Within the inversion, temperatures rise and dewpoints fall with increasing height. Above the inversion, the lapse rate approaches dry adiabatic.

Subsidence inversions are usually associated with anticyclones and/or stable air masses.