Which cause of turbulence involves air moving vertically due to temperature differences?

The correct answer relates to convective currents, which are created by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface. When different ground materials, like soil and water, absorb heat at various rates, the air directly above them also heats up differently. Warm air is less dense and rises, while cooler air is denser and sinks, leading to vertical movements of air known as convection. This vertical shifting of air can generate turbulence, particularly on warm days when significant thermal activity occurs.

Understanding convective currents is crucial for pilots, as they can lead to bumpy conditions during flight, especially in the proximity of thunderstorms or over mountainous terrain, where the effects are amplified. Thus, recognizing the role of temperature differences in creating turbulence is essential for safe and effective flying.