GS PrelimsGeography (Physical)Clouds and Precipitation2004

Which one of the following statements is correct?

A

Cirrus clouds are composed of ice crystals.

B

Cirrus clouds exhibit a flat base and have the appearance of rising domes.

C

Cumulus clouds are white and thin, and form delicate patches and give a fibrous and feathery appearance.

D

Cumulus clouds are classified as high clouds.

Correct Answer: Option A

Explanation

Evaluating the statements about cloud types: 1. Statement (A) is correct. Cirrus clouds are high-altitude clouds (typically above 6,000 meters or 20,000 feet) that are thin and wispy. Due to the extremely low temperatures at these altitudes, they are primarily composed of ice crystals. 2. Statement (B) is incorrect. Clouds exhibiting a flat base and the appearance of rising domes are characteristic of Cumulus clouds, not Cirrus clouds. 3. Statement (C) is incorrect. The description "white and thin, and form delicate patches and give a fibrous and feathery appearance" perfectly describes Cirrus clouds, not Cumulus clouds (which are puffy and cotton-like). 4. Statement (D) is incorrect. Cumulus clouds typically form at lower altitudes (below 2,000 meters or 6,500 feet) and are classified as low clouds, although they can grow vertically (Cumulonimbus) to great heights. They are not classified as high clouds like Cirrus.

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