How can the presence of inversions lead to pollution accumulation?

The presence of inversions leads to pollution accumulation primarily because inversions trap pollutants near the surface by limiting vertical mixing. In a normal atmospheric situation, warm air rises and allows for the dispersion of pollutants. However, during an inversion, a layer of warmer air sits atop cooler air at the surface, creating a stable atmosphere. This stable layer inhibits the upward movement of air, which would typically help disperse pollutants. As a result, pollutants become concentrated in the cooler air near the ground since they cannot rise and disperse into the atmosphere above. This phenomenon can lead to poor air quality, especially in urban areas where emissions are high, making the understanding of inversions crucial for managing pollution.