What characteristic distinguishes microbursts from other downdrafts?

The distinguishing characteristic of microbursts is that they are denser due to being colder than the surrounding air. This cold air results from the evaporation of precipitation, which cools the air rapidly as it descends. When the denser, cold air descends swiftly to the ground, it spreads out horizontally upon hitting the surface, creating strong winds that can pose significant dangers, particularly to aircraft during takeoff and landing.

Understanding this characteristic is crucial for pilots and meteorologists because it highlights how microbursts can lead to sudden, intense wind changes that are not typically associated with gradual downdrafts. The other options either describe characteristics that don't specifically differentiate microbursts or relate to phenomena not limited to microbursts alone, making them less relevant to defining this specific weather event.