Clouds and Weather

Front

What causes water to evaporate into the atmosphere?

Back

Sunlight causes water to evaporate into the atmosphere.

Front

What happens to air containing water vapor as it rises?

Back

As the air rises, it cools and the water vapor condenses on particulate matter to form clouds.

Front

What are Condensation Nuclei?

Back

Particulate matter such as dust, ash, or smoke on which water vapor condenses to form clouds.

Front

What is a cloud?

Back

A thick mass of suspended water drops or ice crystals.

Front

What do clouds signal to meteorologists?

Back

The presence of clouds signals changes in the weather.

Front

What are the 5 characteristics of clouds?

Back

1. The altitude at which they occur 2. Color 3. Density 4. Shape 5. Degree of cover.

Front

Name the 3 types of clouds based on appearance.

Back

Stratus, Cirrus, Cumulus

Front

Describe Stratus clouds.

Back

Thin, sheet-like clouds that are layered with some rippling, cover large portions of the sky, frequently gray and thick, formed when air is forced up slowly.

Front

Describe Cirrus clouds.

Back

Thin, sheet-like clouds that are layered with some rippling, cover large portions of the sky, frequently gray and thick, formed when air is forced up slowly.

Front

Describe Cumulus clouds.

Back

Flat-based, billowing clouds with vertical doming, often with a 'cauliflower-like' appearance, most prominent during summer, formed when air is forced up rapidly.