Which statement MOST accurately describes the temperature gradient in the atmosphere during a thermal inversion?
a. The temperature increases as you move higher in the atmosphere, allowing pollutants to disperse easily.
b. The temperature remains consistent throughout the atmosphere, preventing the accumulation of pollutants.
c. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude, creating a stable environment for pollutants to settle.
d. The temperature at the Earth's surface becomes cooler than the air at higher altitudes, leading to the trapping of pollutants.