Which of the following statements about wake turbulence is true?

Wake turbulence refers to the disturbed air left behind by an aircraft as it generates lift during flight. One of the key characteristics of wake turbulence is that it can linger in the atmosphere for a significant period, especially when weather conditions are stable. This means that even after the generating aircraft has passed, the turbulence can remain and pose a risk to following aircraft.

Wake turbulence generates a vortical pattern, and these vortices can descend, spread, and persist in the air, particularly when there's little wind or turbulence from other sources to help dissipate them. Therefore, understanding that wake turbulence can linger for a time aids air traffic controllers and pilots in maintaining safe separation distances between aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing phases.

In contrast, the options discussing wake turbulence generated during cruise flight or its quick dissipation in calm conditions do not accurately represent the behavior of these phenomena. Additionally, while smaller aircraft are indeed affected by wake turbulence, larger aircraft are often the source of significant hazards, making the statement regarding its effect on only smaller aircraft misleading.