What does the term subsidence refer to in meteorological terms?

The term subsidence in meteorology specifically refers to the process where air sinks and experiences an increase in temperature. This phenomenon typically occurs in high-pressure systems where the sinking air compresses and warms up due to the adiabatic process. When air descends, it is subjected to increased atmospheric pressure, leading to an increase in temperature as the air molecules are forced closer together.

This warming effect often results in clear skies and stable weather conditions, as the sinking air inhibits cloud formation and promotes the dissipation of existing clouds. In contrast, the other options describe different atmospheric processes: rising air, precipitation formation, or horizontal air movement, which are distinct phenomena not related to the concept of subsidence.