What is a characteristic of a stationary front?

A stationary front is defined as a boundary between two air masses that neither advances nor retreats. This lack of movement is what primarily characterizes a stationary front. Instead of the usual progression found in other front types (like warm or cold fronts), a stationary front remains in place due to similar atmospheric pressures on either side, which prevents the air masses from shifting.

When a stationary front is present, weather conditions can remain consistent over a prolonged period, potentially leading to extended periods of overcast skies and precipitation. This stability in positioning differs from the dynamic behavior associated with other front types that typically lead to more abrupt weather changes.

In contrast to the other options, stationary fronts do not usually produce sustained winds or violent thunderstorms. They are typically associated with long-lasting weather patterns rather than rapid changes, making the characteristics and impacts of stationary fronts quite distinct in meteorology.