How is "turbulence" defined in aviation?

In aviation, "turbulence" is defined as the irregular motion of the air that can affect an aircraft's stability. This phenomenon occurs when there are variations in air movement that lead to sudden shifts in speed and direction. Turbulence can be caused by various factors including atmospheric conditions, terrain, and weather systems such as thunderstorms or jet streams. Pilots need to be aware of turbulence because it can cause discomfort for passengers and may impact the aircraft’s flight path or control. Understanding turbulence is crucial for safe flight operations, as it requires pilots to adjust their flying techniques to maintain optimal performance and ensure passenger safety during encounters with both clear air turbulence and turbulence associated with weather phenomena.