Final answer:
Temperature inversions are significant regarding air pollution because they prevent the vertical mixing of air, trapping pollutants close to the ground, leading to increased concentrations which can cause serious health issues. option 3) Vertical mixing of pollutants is halted, trapping the pollutants under the inversion layer is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Temperature inversions are notable in relation to air pollution because they can lead to the trapping of pollutants close to the ground. An inversion occurs when the normal temperature gradient of the atmosphere is reversed, causing a layer of cooler, denser air to be trapped beneath a layer of warmer air. This effectively creates a 'cap' on the upward movement of air, limiting the vertical mixing that would normally help to disperse pollutants.
Air pollution, including hazardous components such as smog, can accumulate underneath this inversion layer, leading to increased concentrations at ground level. These high concentrations can have serious health implications, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Ground-level ozone and particulate matter are particularly concerning, as they can cause respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other health conditions.
Mexico City, for example, experiences severe air pollution exacerbated by temperature inversions due to its high elevation and surrounding mountainous terrain. This restricts the mixing of polluted air, causing pollutants to remain stagnant over the city. Measures like restricting vehicle use based on license plate numbers have been implemented to reduce pollution levels during inversion events.
The correct answer regarding why temperature inversions are noteworthy concerning air pollution is that vertical mixing of pollutants is halted, trapping the pollutants under the inversion layer.