A decrease in air temperature is typically associated with what atmospheric phenomenon?

A decrease in air temperature is typically associated with subsidence. This phenomenon occurs when air sinks and compresses, leading to an increase in pressure and, consequently, a decrease in temperature. As the air descends, it heats up adiabatically, but if the initial air mass is cooler than the surrounding environment, it can still be characterized by a net decrease in temperature at the surface.

In meteorological contexts, subsidence is often associated with high-pressure systems, where stable air descends and causes clear skies and calm conditions. This stabilization can lead to cooling effects, particularly in the presence of radiative cooling during the night. As such, subsidence plays a crucial role in the temperature changes in the lower atmosphere.

Advection involves the horizontal transfer of heat and moisture and is primarily responsible for warming or cooling air masses based on their movement, while convection refers to vertical transfer of heat due to the warming of air at the surface. Convergence involves the meeting of different air masses, typically leading to rising air and potential cloud formation rather than a straightforward decrease in temperature at the surface.