What does inversion mean in earth science?

An inversion is a geophysical process that occurs when material sinks into the earth at one location, and then shifts to another location, leaving a lighter material on the surface (or, in the case of an inverted layer, leaving the heavier material at the surface).

What does inversion mean in planetary science?

In planetary science, an inversion is an overturning of the mantle and crust layers of a planet. In an inversion, the heavier materials are on the bottom and the lighter materials are on top. In the earth’s core, the heavier iron, nickel, and sulfur are on the bottom and lighter silicate rocks are on top. In the upper mantle, the heavier minerals potassium, rubidium, and caesium are on the bottom and lighter minerals are on top. The top

What is inversion mean in seismology?

The term inversion refers to the vertical shift of the earth’s crust that occurs in certain parts of the earth. A seismic “inversion” is a particular type of “normal” or “linear” deformation zone that marks the boundary between two rock types: typically an older, lower-density crystalline rock and a newer, higher-density granular flow. The uppermost part of the crystalline rock is known as the “cap”

What is inversion mean in weather forecasting?

Inversion refers to the reversal of the temperature and/or humidity gradient with height. Typically, as an air parcel rises, it cools off and becomes more humid. An inversion occurs when the temperature drops below the ground at a certain height. This reversal in temperature and humidity can last several days.

What does inversion mean in meteorology?

A small area of the atmosphere can be inverted when it becomes colder than its surroundings due to an incident of convection. The air that is being lifted up is cooled by contact with the surrounding air which is at a lower elevation. The low-pressure zone is then able to sink down into the surrounding air, which is at a higher elevation. This process is known as inversion.