What phenomenon is characterized by a rise in temperature at higher altitudes?

The phenomenon characterized by a rise in temperature at higher altitudes is known as temperature inversion. In a typical atmosphere, temperatures generally decrease with altitude. However, during a temperature inversion, a layer of warmer air traps cooler air at lower altitudes, creating a situation where temperatures increase with height. This can lead to various atmospheric effects, such as the trapping of pollutants and fog formation.

Understanding the conditions that lead to temperature inversions is crucial in meteorology, particularly because they can impact weather patterns, air quality, and even turbulence experienced by aircraft. Inversions often occur in stable weather conditions, where clear skies and calm winds allow for nighttime cooling of the Earth's surface, leading to the warmer air aloft.