Final answer:
When flying in or around cumulus clouds, a pilot might expect updrafts, turbulence, and the potential development into more severe weather conditions like thunderstorms due to the convection processes involved in cloud formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Expectations When Flying in or Around Cumulus Clouds
When flying in or around cumulus clouds, one can expect a number of atmospheric conditions due to the convection processes that form these clouds. Cumulus clouds are indicative of convection currents that carry warmer, moist air upwards into the cooler atmosphere, where the water vapor condenses into droplets that form the clouds. This upward movement can cause updrafts and turbulence, which might affect the flight path of an aircraft. A pilot should be aware that navigating through or near cumulus clouds can result in a bumpy ride. Additionally, cumulus clouds can sometimes develop into cumulonimbus clouds, which are associated with thunderstorms and more severe weather conditions, presenting further challenges to aviation.
Figure 14.20 in the question suggests that the rise of clouds is driven by a positive feedback mechanism, indicating a potential for significant and rapidly changing weather phenomena around these clouds that pilots must be ready to respond to. It's important for those in aviation to monitor such conditions closely and adjust their flight plans accordingly for safety.