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What are the fundamental types by which clouds are distinguished?

  • A

    Thunderstorm and shower clouds.

  • B

    Cumulus and stratiform clouds.

  • C

    Layered and lifted clouds.

  • D

    Stratiform and ice clouds.

Refer to figure.
There are three primary cloud shapes, with the two most relevant for pilots being stratiform and cumuliform clouds.

  • Stratiform clouds are generally flat or stratified, covering large horizontal areas but with minimal vertical extent.
  • Cumuliform clouds are tall and have limited horizontal spread, often appearing heaped like cauliflower.
  • Cirriform clouds have a fibrous, wispy, or hail-like appearance and are exclusively found at high levels in the troposphere.

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