Chapter 12 - Cloud Classification Flashcards
Define a cloud base.
The height above ground or an airfield of lowest cloud, in ft.
Define cloud ceiling.
The height above the ground or an airfield of the lowest cloud covering over half of the sky, in ft.
Define cloud top.
The top of a cloud.
What are the classifications for cloud amount?
0 okta - sky clear SKC
1-2 oktas - FEW
3-4 oktas - Scattered SCT
5-7 oktas - Broken BKN
8 oktas - overcast OVC
9 oktas - sky obscured
How are clouds classified?
By shape, cloud base and if they are rain carrying
What is the shape of a cumulus cloud and why?
Heaped, due to convection in unstable air.
What is the shape of a stratus cloud and why?
horizontally spread and layered due to stable air.
What is the cloud base range of clouds with no prefix?
Surface - 6500ft
What is the cloud base range of clouds with the “alto” prefix?
6500 - 23000 ft
What is the cloud base range for clouds with the “cirro” prefix?
16000 - 45000 ft.
What is the prefix for a rain baring cloud?
nimbo (or nimbus after cumulus)
Where do nimbostratus clouds usually form?
At a warm front.
Where do cumulonimbus clouds usally form?
At a cold front.
What are the 10 main types of cloud classification wth the codes?
Cumulus CU
Stratus ST
Strato cumulus SC
Alto cumulus AC
Cirro cumulus CC
Alto stratus AS
Cirro stratus CS
Cirrus CI
Cumulonimbus CB
Nimbostratus NS
What are the characteristics of the Castellanus species of cloud?
They are turreted.
