What is the effect of inversion layers on air pollution dispersion?

Inversion layers significantly influence air quality and pollution dispersion. When a layer of warm air traps cooler air below it, this stable atmospheric condition hinders vertical mixing. As a result, pollutants emitted near the surface become confined within the cooler air layer, preventing them from dispersing into the atmosphere. This phenomenon can lead to increased concentrations of pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues and posing health risks.

In contrast, options that suggest enhancement, no effect, or dilution of pollutants do not align with the physics of inversion layers. Inversion layers inherently reduce the vertical movement of air, which is crucial for dispersing pollutants.