What is the primary cause of turbulence during flight?

The primary cause of turbulence during flight is variations in air movement. Turbulence occurs when there are irregular or chaotic changes in airflow, leading to fluctuations in altitude and attitude of the aircraft. These variations can arise from multiple factors, such as changes in wind speed and direction at different altitudes, thermal currents caused by uneven heating of the Earth's surface, or the effects of weather systems like fronts and storms.

Understanding turbulence is crucial for pilots, as it can affect the comfort and control of the aircraft. Recognizing that turbulence primarily stems from air movement helps emphasize the dynamic nature of the atmosphere and the importance of monitoring weather patterns and wind conditions during flight planning and operations.