What is the primary difference between turbulence and chop?

The primary difference between turbulence and chop lies in how they affect the aircraft's movement. Turbulence is characterized by irregular or chaotic changes in airflow that can cause an aircraft to experience shifts in attitude or altitude. This means that during turbulence, the plane may suddenly rise, fall, or tilt unexpectedly due to the unpredictable nature of the air currents. These fluctuations can vary greatly in intensity and impact how passengers and crew perceive the flight.

Chop, on the other hand, typically refers to more moderate, consistent movements that don't involve significant changes in altitude or attitude. While both turbulence and chop can create a bumpy ride, chop tends to be less intense and does not affect the aircraft's vertical movement to the same extent. Understanding this distinction is crucial for pilots and crew members as it helps in anticipating and managing passenger comfort during flights.