Clouds and Precipitation

Question 1

Unique properties of water

Answer 1

Latent heat of vaporization and fusion unusually high
Heat capacity of liquid water is highest amongst common substances
Large Heat capacity leading to require/release large latent heat in phase change

Question 2

Water phase changes

Answer 2

Solid to Gas -> Sublimation(to gas 680cal absorbed) / Deposition similar
Liquid to Gas -> Evaporation(to gas 600cal absorbed) / Condensation similar

Question 3

Water vapor

Answer 3

Water in gaseuos form / humidity

Question 4

Saturation vapour pressure, es

Answer 4

Rate of molecules leaving surface of water balanced by rate that water molecules are returning
Increase in T will increase rate of evap or sublimation. Saturation vapour pressure must increase with rising T

Question 5

Relative humidity, RH

Answer 5

Ratio of actual amount of water vapour in the air to amount required for saturation at the temp of the air
e/es | es being saturated vapour pressure

Question 6

Cloud formation

Answer 6

Sat vap pressure over a curved surface greater than plane surface

Question 7

Classifications of clouds

Answer 7

Cirrus - light
Stratus - non convective formed under stable cond
Cumulus - convective clouds, formed under unstable conds.