Types of Clouds Worksheet | Game Quiz

Clouds form through the process of water vapor condensation in the atmosphere, creating visible collections of water droplets or ice crystals. The altitude, shape, and characteristics of clouds help meteorologists predict weather patterns and atmospheric conditions.

High-Altitude Clouds (Cirrus Family)

High-altitude clouds typically form above 20,000 feet in temperate regions. These clouds consist primarily of ice crystals due to the extremely cold temperatures at high altitudes.

Cirrus clouds appear as thin, wispy strands that often resemble horse tails or hair-like filaments stretching across the sky. Their delicate structure results from ice crystals being shaped by strong winds in the upper atmosphere.

Cirrostratus clouds form a transparent, whitish veil that covers large portions of the sky. These clouds often create halos around the sun or moon due to light refraction through ice crystals.

Cirrocumulus clouds appear as small ripples or fish-scale patterns in the sky. These rare cloud formations often indicate fair but cold weather conditions.

Mid-Altitude Clouds (Alto Family)

Mid-level clouds typically form between 6,500 and 20,000 feet, containing both water droplets and ice crystals depending on atmospheric conditions.

Altostratus clouds create a gray or bluish-gray sheet covering the sky. While the sun may be visible through these clouds as a dim disk, they often signal approaching precipitation.

Altocumulus clouds appear as gray or white patches arranged in sheets or rows. These clouds frequently indicate changing weather conditions and potential thunderstorm development within 24 hours.

Low-Altitude Clouds (Stratus Family)

Low-lying clouds form below 6,500 feet and primarily consist of water droplets.

Stratus clouds create a uniform, gray layer resembling a blanket across the sky. These clouds often produce drizzle or light snow and can reduce visibility significantly.

Stratocumulus clouds form a patchy layer of gray or white clouds with spaces of sky visible between them. These clouds rarely produce precipitation but may develop into nimbostratus clouds.

Clouds of Vertical Development

Cumulus clouds exhibit significant vertical development and can span multiple altitude levels.

Fair weather cumulus clouds appear as white, fluffy masses with flat bases and rounded tops. These clouds typically indicate stable weather conditions.

Cumulonimbus clouds, often called thunderheads, develop into tall, dark towers with anvil-shaped tops. These clouds produce severe weather, including heavy rain, thunder, lightning, and occasionally hail or tornadoes.