Advection is defined as what type of air movement?

Advection is specifically defined as the horizontal movement of air. This concept is crucial in meteorology, as it refers to the transfer of air (and its associated properties like temperature, humidity, and pressure) from one area to another, which can significantly influence weather patterns and conditions. For example, warm air moving into a colder region can change the local weather, leading to phenomena such as temperature increases or the development of clouds and precipitation. Understanding advection helps pilots anticipate weather changes that could affect flight conditions.

The other options, while related to air movement in various ways, do not align with the definition of advection. Vertical movement of air pertains to phenomena like convection and updrafts, while the sinking of cold air is associated with processes such as subsidence. The movement of air within a storm describes more localized and complex dynamics, often involving both horizontal and vertical motions, but still does not capture the broader term of advection.