Reading: What are Clouds?

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What are clouds?

Back

Clouds are visible masses of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere.

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What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes into liquid water.

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What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process where liquid water turns into water vapor.

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What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from clouds to the Earth's surface.

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What is deposition?

Back

Deposition is the process where a gas turns directly into a solid without becoming a liquid first.

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What causes clouds to appear darker?

Back

Clouds appear darker when less sunlight reaches those parts of the cloud.

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What is needed for condensation to occur besides cooling humid air?

Back

A solid surface for the water vapor to condense or stick to is needed.

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What are the main components of clouds?

Back

Clouds are made up of tiny water droplets or ice crystals.

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What role do clouds play in the water cycle?

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Clouds are essential in the water cycle as they transport water vapor and release precipitation.

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What is the difference between cumulus and stratus clouds?

Back

Cumulus clouds are fluffy and white, indicating fair weather, while stratus clouds are flat and gray, often bringing rain.