Purchase Solution

Classification of clouds

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

How are clouds classified? What are the characteristics of each cloud type?

Purchase this Solution
Solution Summary

The classification system of clouds is based on three criteria and Latin roots are used to describe them. This system is explained, as well as the circumstances under which different cloud formations arise.

Solution Preview

The international system of cloud classification is based upon the shape and vertical extent of the cloud, and its altitude. Generally a prefix or suffix attached to a root word describes the cloud. The prefix alto- means middle level clouds and nimbo- or -nimbus means rain-bearing. cirr- means high. However, the definition of high or low changes with latitude. For example high clouds occur above 6,000 m in the tropics and above 3,000 m in high ...

Purchase this Solution
Free BrainMass Quizzes
Gems, Fossils, and Space Rocks

Brief introduction to basic information related to gems, fossils, and space rocks. Great for introducing a science unit to students!

Geography Points of Interest

Brief query of points of interest in the world. For example, choosing the largest body of water from 3 choices.

United States and Canada Vocabulary

Assessment of basic vocabulary terms related to geography and resources in the United States and Canda.

"Tornadoes and Hurricanes" Vocabulary

Brief introduction to vocabulary terms related to the atmosphere. Definitions are related to conditions for tornadoes and hurricanes.

Environmental Awareness 2020

This quiz is to test your knowledge and awareness on the current environmental issues that are posing a serious threat to the planet.

View More Free Quizzes
Related BrainMass Solutions

  • The Relationship between Climate and Cloud Formation

    107559 Considering the factors involved in the formation of clouds, discuss the relationship of climate and clouds. Considering the factors involved in the formation of clouds, discuss the relationship of climate and clouds.

  • Role of Air Circulation in Cloud Formation

    176485 Clouds and Precipitation Why is the vertical movement of air critical to the formation of clouds and precipitation? What role do adiabatic temperature changes pay in these processes?

  • Height at which clouds form considering air temperature

    Part B If the air temperature decreases with altitude at a rate of 0.6 degrees celsius/100 m, at approximately what height above the ground will clouds form if the relative humidity at the surface is 80?

  • Lateral Thinking on the Regularity of the Sun

    Once all of that has turned into water and fallen from the sky there are no clouds and, hence, no more rain. The atmosphere needs more time before the water on earth will evaporate and turn back into clouds.

  • Layers of Saturn

    The clouds of Jupiter and Saturn have similar make make up because the ammonia in their atmosphere condenses to form clouds that range in color from white, brown, and orange.

  • CN in molecular clouds

    51524 CN in molecular clouds Cold, interstellar, molecular clouds have been seen to contain the cynogen molecule, CN, whose first rotational excited states have an energy of 4.7*10^-4 eV above the ground state.

  • Sky above clouds - Georgia O'Keeffe

    Analysis of the elements of art which are used in Georgia O'Keefe's painting Sky Above Clouds.

  • Setting and the action - The Man to Send Rain Clouds

    The setting of "The Man to Send Rain Clouds" is the whitewashed Mission San Jose on the top of the mesa at the northwest corner of the village On the top of the mesa at the northwest corner.

  • What causes day and night?

    22246 Cause of Day and Night 1. What causes day and night? (a) The Earth spins on its axis. (b) The Earth moves around the Sun. (c) Clouds block out the Sun's light (d) The Earth moves into and out of the Sun's shadow.

View More Related Solutions