Download CLOUDS

CLOUDS
Cloud Formation
• As warm air cools, the amount of
water vapor increases (humidity
rises).
• When the air is saturated with water
vapor tiny water droplets form around
particles of dust and smog in the
atmosphere.
• When millions of these drops collect,
a cloud forms.
How are clouds classified?
• Clouds are
classified by
their shape
and their
height in the
sky.
There are 4 types of clouds.
• Stratus
• Cumulus
• Cirrus
• Nimbus
Stratus Clouds
• Stratus clouds usually form at low
altitudes.
• Stratus clouds usually look like a dull,
gray blanket that hangs low in the sky.
This type of cloud will form fog.
Cumulus Clouds
• Cumulus clouds form at middle
altitudes but can also reach great
heights during their formation.
• Cumulus clouds look like puffy white
cotton.
Cirrus Clouds
• Cirrus clouds form at high altitudes.
• Cirrus clouds appear wispy, stringy or
feathery because of the presence of
ice crystals.
Nimbus Clouds
• These are dark clouds that are usually
associated with rain or precipitation.
Naming Clouds
• Prefixes:
–Cirro- describes high clouds
–Alto- describes middle elevation
clouds
–Strato- describes low altitude
clouds
–Nimbo- clouds carrying rain
• Example:
A low altitude cloud that appears puffy
white.
Answer –
• Example:
A high altitude cloud that appears dull
and gray.
Answer -
• http://www.brainpop.com/science/weather/
clouds/