Question

why are temperature inversions particularly problematic in industrial cities? they improve the dispersion of industrial emissions. they trap pollutants from industrial activities close to the surface. they cause industrial equipment to malfunction. they enhance the cooling effects of industrial activities.

Explanation:

To determine the answer, we analyze each option:

• "They improve the dispersion of industrial emissions" is incorrect because temperature inversions hinder, not improve, dispersion.
• "They trap pollutants from industrial activities close to the surface" is correct. Temperature inversions create a layer where warm air is above cool air, preventing pollutants from rising and dispersing, so they get trapped near the surface, which is problematic in industrial cities with high emissions.
• "They cause industrial equipment to malfunction" is incorrect as temperature inversions don't directly affect equipment functionality.
• "They enhance the cooling effects of industrial activities" is incorrect; inversions relate to air temperature layers and pollution trapping, not cooling industrial activities.

Answer:

B. They trap pollutants from industrial activities close to the surface.