How can mountains affect airflow?

Mountains significantly influence airflow due to their ability to disrupt the normal flow of air. When wind encounters a mountain range, it is forced to rise, which can lead to a series of phenomena. As the air flows over the peaks, it can create turbulence, with eddies and mechanical lift occurring on the upwind side, while downwind areas might experience descending turbulent air. This can lead to unpredictable wind patterns, making flying in mountainous regions more complex and often hazardous.

Understanding this effect is critical for pilots, especially those flying in areas with varied terrain, as they must anticipate the potential for sudden changes in airflow and turbulence. These considerations are essential during planning and flying to ensure safety and effective navigation. The other options do not capture the significant impact that mountains have on airflow and flying conditions, hence they lack relevance in this context.