FAA Part 107 Drone Practice Test

What is a primary indicator of a low-level temperature inversion?

1. Increased wind speed and gusts

2. High relative humidity

3. Rapid temperature drops

4. Increased turbulence and instability

The correct answer is: High relative humidity

A low-level temperature inversion is characterized by a layer of warmer air trapping cooler air and pollutants near the ground. This phenomenon can lead to specific meteorological conditions, one of which is high relative humidity. When a temperature inversion occurs, the air near the surface can become saturated with moisture, resulting in increased relative humidity levels. This high humidity can contribute to the development of fog and low clouds, which are often seen during inversions. In contrast, increased wind speed, rapid temperature drops, and increased turbulence are typically associated with unstable atmospheric conditions, not the stable environment found in a temperature inversion scenario. Therefore, recognizing high relative humidity as a primary indicator helps to understand the implications of a temperature inversion on weather patterns and visibility conditions.