What effect does a stable atmosphere have on pollutant accumulation?

A stable atmosphere has a significant impact on the behavior of pollutants in the air, leading to their accumulation. In a stable atmosphere, there is a strong temperature inversion that prevents air from rising. This inversion layer traps cool air and any pollutants in it close to the ground, while air above the inversion layer remains warmer and prevents vertical mixing. As a result, pollutants cannot disperse and instead build up in the lower layers of the atmosphere.

This accumulation can lead to higher concentrations of pollutants in certain areas, especially in valleys or locations where air movement is limited. The lack of atmospheric turbulence associated with a stable environment further contributes to this process, as the mixing that typically promotes dilution and dispersion of pollutants is minimal.