What typically happens to cloudiness in areas of descending air?

Areas of descending air commonly lead to a significant decrease in cloudiness. This phenomenon occurs because as air descends, it experiences compression and warming. When air is compressed, its temperature increases, which enables the air to hold more moisture. Consequently, this warming reduces the relative humidity, making it less likely for moisture to condense and form clouds.

In contrast, in areas of rising air, the opposite occurs. Rising air expands and cools, leading to lower temperatures and increased likelihood of condensation, which can result in cloud formation and precipitation. Therefore, when air is descending, the conditions are generally unfavorable for cloud formation, leading to clearer skies and less cloudiness in those regions.

The other options imply scenarios that would not align with the nature of descending air. Increased cloudiness and stormy conditions are typically associated with rising air, while stable conditions would not lead to a change in cloudiness.