Clouds and Weather Flashcard

Front

What are the three main types of clouds?

Back

Cumulus, stratus, and cirrus.

Front

What are cirrus clouds and what weather do they indicate?

Back

Thin, wispy clouds found at high altitudes that indicate fair weather.

Front

What is the difference between stratus and cumulus clouds?

Back

Stratus clouds are low-level clouds that form in layers, while cumulus clouds are puffy, white clouds that usually indicate fair weather.

Front

What role do condensation nuclei play in cloud formation?

Back

Condensation nuclei provide a surface for water vapor to condense onto, forming cloud droplets.

Front

What are the characteristics of cumulonimbus clouds?

Back

Large, dense, and vertically developed.

Front

What type of weather is typically associated with stratus clouds?

Back

Overcast skies and light precipitation.

Front

How do clouds form?

Back

Clouds form when water vapor in the air cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The continuous process of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation that recycles water in the environment.

Front

What are nimbostratus clouds?

Back

Thick, dark clouds that cover the sky and bring continuous, steady precipitation.

Front

What is the significance of altostratus clouds?

Back

Altostratus clouds are mid-level clouds that often indicate that rain or snow is on the way.