Weather: Some Say It’s All About Clouds
When scientists and meteorologists discuss the very general topic if weather, the conversation usually revolves around various types of clouds. In fact, there are two basic categories of clouds, the cumuliform and the stratiform. Within these two general types, scientists and weather observers distinguish a number of sub-types, depending on weather conditions and appearance.
Clouds indicate that there are rising masses of air and water vapor is condensing. With this in mind, weather experts and storm watchers are able to figure out, with some accuracy, what weather systems may occur. However, while non-professionals have for centuries enjoyed the many, many shapes that occur when clouds form, the use of cloud classification was developed in relatively recent times.
According to most historical accounts, an Englishman named Luke Howard developed a cloud classifying plan and presented it to a scientific society in 1803. The names he employed were based on the common practice of using the Latin language. This method allowed for combinations of cloud names, thus creating some of the sub-types.
In contrast, the stratiform cloud is so-named because of the Latin stratus meaning “layer.” These clouds are literally flat and layered, as the name implies. In a different process from the formation of cumulus clouds, the stratiform type of cloud gathers with frontal systems and are often associated with more stable climate conditions.
In contrast, the stratiform cloud is so-named because of the Latin stratus meaning “layer.” These clouds are literally flat and layered, as the name implies. In a different process from the formation of cumulus clouds, the stratiform type of cloud gathers with frontal systems and are often associated with more stable climate conditions.
The altitude at which clouds form can also help determine what type they are. For example, those clouds above 16,500 feet above sea level are generally known as cirrus clouds. This means that the “cirro” is sometimes added to give specific names to basic cloud types. There is another sub-type of cloud, generally forming at 6,500 feet and up to the level of cirrus clouds. This type of cloud can sometimes be known as an “alto” cloud. Those clouds forming at lower levels are usually classified only as one of two basic types - stratus and cumulus.
However, there are cumulonimbus clouds that many consider a class of its own because this type of cloud can be found at nearly all altitudes. The term “nimbus” is meant to indicate that the cloud holds rain. Of course, the practice of cloud classification is far from an perfect science. Yet, most experts know that the flexibility of the system may fit the infinite variations in cloud appearance.
Nearly everyone is aware that clouds form with rising air that cools until water vapor is at a saturation point. Droplets that grow large enough can be drawn to the earth by gravity, and we have what is commonly known as precipitation. There are several common types of precipitation - rain, sleet and snow among the different types. Clouds are the birthplace of the precipitation experienced on the ground.