Editing Temperature gradient (section)

== Physical processes ==

=== Meteorology ===
Differences in air temperature between different locations are critical in weather forecasting and climate. The absorption of solar light at or near the planetary surface increases the temperature gradient and may result in [[convection]] (a major process of [[cloud]] formation, often associated with [[Precipitation (meteorology)|precipitation]]). 
[[Surface weather analysis|Meteorological fronts]] are regions where the horizontal temperature gradient may reach relatively high values, as these are boundaries between [[air mass]]es with rather distinct properties.

Clearly, the temperature gradient may change substantially in time, as a result of diurnal or seasonal heating and cooling for instance. This most likely happens during an [[Inversion (meteorology)|inversion]]. For instance, during the day the temperature at [[Lithosphere|ground level]] may be cold while it's warmer up in the atmosphere. As the day shifts over to night the temperature might drop rapidly while at other places on the land stay warmer or cooler at the same [[elevation]]. This happens on the [[West Coast of the United States]] sometimes due to geography.

=== Weathering ===
Expansion and contraction of rock, caused by temperature changes during a [[wildfire]], through [[Weathering#Thermal stress|thermal stress weathering]], may result in [[thermal shock]] and subsequent structure failure.