With respect to air masses, what occurs in a stationary front?

In a stationary front, the air masses on either side of the front have similar temperatures and pressures, which is why they tend to remain in place rather than moving toward one another. This balance means that there is no significant movement of one air mass over another as you would see in a cold or warm front. The stationary front often leads to prolonged weather conditions in the area, as neither air mass is forcing the other to rise or move significantly, allowing clouds and precipitation to linger for extended periods.

Understanding this concept is essential for interpreting weather patterns, as stationary fronts can lead to varying conditions, including extended periods of drizzle or overcast skies. The other scenarios regarding cold air overtaking warm air, warm air being lifted, or one air mass pushing another generally describe active fronts, which involve movement and significant weather changes, unlike the stable conditions seen in stationary fronts.