In aviation, turbulence is generally categorized into four primary types based on their atmospheric causes. 1. Thermal (Convective) Turbulence occurs when warm air rises from the earth's surface, creating vertical currents; this is common on hot days over dark terrain like asphalt or plowed fields. 2. Mechanical Turbulence happens when wind hits large physical obstructions like mountains or tall buildings, creating "eddies" or disturbed air patterns on the leeward side. 3. Frontal Turbulence is caused by the friction between two air masses of different temperatures and densities, often seen during the passage of a cold front. 4. Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) is the most deceptive, occurring at high altitudes near jet streams without any visible clouds or weather cues. It is caused by extreme wind shear—the sudden change in wind speed or direction. While all types can be startling to passengers, modern aircraft are built to withstand forces far greater than any turbulence can produce, and pilots use radar and weather reports to minimize exposure to these bumpy conditions.