An inversion layer in air is characterized by what temperature pattern?

The correct response reflects the phenomenon where an inversion layer occurs in the atmosphere, specifically indicating that temperatures decrease with altitude in the lower layers of the atmosphere, and then increase at higher altitudes. This situation arises because, under normal conditions, air temperature typically decreases with elevation due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure. However, during an inversion, this pattern is inverted; warm air becomes trapped above cooler air near the ground.

This is significant for aerial application because such temperature inversions can influence pesticide drift, as they can trap air pollutants or airborne chemicals close to the ground, preventing them from dispersing effectively. Understanding this characteristic of an inversion layer is crucial for making informed decisions regarding aerial applications to enhance efficacy and minimize adverse environmental impacts.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the behavior of temperatures in an inversion layer and thus do not align with the phenomenon's true nature.