Why is nighttime often considered for operations involving airborne materials?

Nighttime operations involving airborne materials are often favored due to the higher stability of the atmosphere during these hours. At night, the ground cools down, leading to a temperature inversion where warmer air overlays cooler air at the surface. This inversion typically results in a more stable atmosphere, which reduces vertical mixing.

In a stable atmosphere, pollutants and airborne materials tend to remain closer to the ground and do not disperse as widely as they would during more turbulent conditions typically associated with daytime heating. This stability can aid in managing airborne materials since it helps keep emissions localized, potentially reducing their impact on air quality in surrounding areas. Therefore, the higher stability of air at night is a crucial consideration for safety and environmental protection when conducting operations that involve airborne materials.