Capping inversion

A capping inversion is an elevated inversion layer that caps a convective boundary layer.

An inversion layer is when the normal temperature profile is reversed (cooler air below warmer air). An elevated inversion layer is higher in the atmosphere.

The layer nearest the Earth is called the boundary layer. An elevated inversion layer allows for a normal temperature profile (warmer air below cooler air) in the boundary layer. Warmer air near the surface rises into the cooler air, which is called convection. A convective boundary layer indicates the layer closest to the earth has the potential for cloud formation, since as the warm air rises and cools condensation occurs.

A capping inversion occurs when there is a boundary layer with a normal temperature profile (warm air rising into cooler air) and the layer above that is an inversion layer (cooler air below warm air). Cloud formation from the lower layer is capped by the inversion layer, which can lead to server thunderstorms. If the capping inversion layer or "cap" is too strong (too close to the surface), it will prevent thunderstorms from developing. This can result in fog.

See Also

• Convective available potential energy
• Convective inhibition

Sources

• National Science Digital Library - Capping Inversion