Which condition usually leads to improved visibility after a cold front passes?

The situation that typically results in improved visibility after a cold front passes is associated with the drying out of the atmosphere. When a cold front moves through an area, it usually brings with it a shift from warm, moist air to cooler, drier air. This transition leads to a reduction in humidity levels, which can help clear out residual moisture in the air, such as fog or haze, thereby improving visibility.

Additionally, the change in pressure associated with the passing cold front tends to promote vertical mixing in the atmosphere, further dispersing any remaining airborne particles that contribute to reduced visibility. The result is clearer skies and an enhanced ability to see objects at a distance.

In contrast, increased cloud cover, stable air masses, and cooling of surface temperatures do not inherently contribute to improved visibility in the same way. For example, increased cloud cover can often lead to decreased visibility as clouds can obscure sightlines and scatter light. Similarly, stable air masses can trap pollutants and moisture, which can lead to haze and diminish visibility. Cooling of surface temperatures alone does not guarantee improved visibility; it often depends on the moisture content of the air. Hence, the drying effect of the atmosphere following a cold front is crucial for visibility improvement.