Inversion
A layer in which temperature rises with height instead of falling, so thermals stall in it.
Also known as
- temperature inversion standard term
Terms and slang labels apply to this language. Usage may differ in other languages.
What it means
Rising air entering it is no longer warmer than its surroundings, so it slows and spreads sideways, although a strong thermal can sometimes punch through. The inversion is the layer itself, while the thermal ceiling is the height thermals end up reaching.
Example in context
The thermal fell apart under the inversion and I couldn't get any higher.
Sources and review
- NWS Glossary: Inversion (opens in a new tab)
- FAA Glider Flying Handbook, Chapter 10 (Soaring Techniques) (opens in a new tab)
- Jakub Vrána — Paraglidingový slang: o počasí (opens in a new tab)
Reviewed: