Private Pilot Private Exam

What characteristics are typically associated with unstable air?

1. Low turbulence and poor surface visibility

2. Strong winds and high humidity

3. Turbulence and good surface visibility

4. Calm conditions and fog

The correct answer is: Turbulence and good surface visibility

The characteristics of unstable air are closely associated with turbulence and good surface visibility. Unstable air often leads to the development of convective currents, which can cause turbulence due to varying temperature and pressure conditions. This turbulence is manifest during conditions of rising air, which may be common in an unstable atmosphere. Additionally, because unstable air often promotes strong vertical development, such as cumulus clouds or thunderstorms, the visibility can initially be good before being affected by localized weather phenomena. Typically, when air is unstable, it can lead to clear conditions with visibility being affected primarily by transient weather phenomena rather than dense fog or low visibility associated with stable air, which is more common in colder, moister environments. As a result, turbulent conditions coexist with good visibility, especially when compared against air that is more stable.