FAA Ground School Practice Test

When may hazardous wind shear be expected?

1. In areas of high altitude over mountains

2. In areas of low-level temperature inversion, frontal zones, and clear air turbulence

3. Only during thunderstorms or severe weather

4. In all areas with calm wind conditions

The correct answer is: In areas of low-level temperature inversion, frontal zones, and clear air turbulence

Hazardous wind shear is often associated with specific atmospheric conditions that can significantly affect aircraft performance. The correct choice highlights that wind shear is likely to occur in areas of low-level temperature inversion, frontal zones, and clear air turbulence. In a temperature inversion, warmer air is trapped above cooler air, which can create abrupt changes in wind speed and direction as an aircraft moves through these layers. Frontal zones mark the transition between different air masses, where wind shears are prevalent due to variations in temperature and pressure creating complex wind patterns. Clear air turbulence, often associated with jet streams, can also produce significant wind shear even when visibility is good, making it difficult for pilots to anticipate. This understanding illustrates why the conditions mentioned in the correct option are critical for recognizing the potential for hazardous wind shear, as these phenomena can lead to unpredictable changes in aircraft flight characteristics. Other scenarios, like calm wind conditions or thunderstorms, while they can have their own challenges, do not capture the full spectrum of where hazardous wind shear can occur.