Question

Which of the following clouds are almost always composed of ice crystals? 1) Cirrus clouds 2) Cumulus clouds 3) Stratus clouds 4) Nimbus clouds

Answer 1

The clouds that are almost always composed of ice crystals are cirrus clouds. Cirrus clouds are high-altitude clouds, typically found at altitudes above 20,000 feet, so the correct option is 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

These clouds are formed by the freezing of water vapor in the atmosphere, resulting in the formation of ice crystals.

Cumulus clouds and stratus clouds are primarily composed of water droplets. Cumulus clouds are large and puffy in appearance, while stratus clouds are flat and layered.

Nimbus clouds are generally associated with precipitation, such as rain or snow. They can be composed of a mixture of water droplets and ice crystals, depending on the temperature.

Unlike the water vapor generated cumulus clouds, cirrus clouds form under conditions where the lower temperatures at high altitudes result in the formation of ice crystals.

Each type of cloud is characterized by unique properties and formation processes inherent to their respective layers in the atmosphere.

For instance, cumulus clouds, which are often associated with fair weather, are formed by convection as water vapor rises.

Also, cirrus clouds remain distinct in their almost exclusive composition of ice due to their high altitude and the colder conditions of the upper atmosphere.

So, the correct option is 1.