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There are ten main types
of cloud which can be separated into three broad categories
according to the height of their base above the ground: high
clouds, medium clouds and low clouds.
High clouds
These are usually composed solely of ice crystals and
have a base between 18,000 and 45,000 feet (5,500 and 14,000
metres).
Medium clouds
These are usually composed of water droplets and ice
crystals, and have a base between 6,500 and 23,000 feet (2,000
and 7,000 metres).
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Altocumulus
- layered, rippled elements, generally white with some
shading |
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Altostratus
- thin layer, grey, allows sun to appear as if through
ground glass |
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Nimbostratus
- thick layer, low base, dark, rain or snow may fall from
it |
Low clouds
These are usually composed of water droplets, though cumulonimbus
clouds include ice crystals, and have a base below 6,500 feet
(2,000 metres).
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Stratocumulus
- layered, series of rounded rolls, generally white with
some shading |
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Stratus
- layered, uniform base, grey |
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Cumulus
- individual cells, vertical rolls or towers, flat base
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Cumulonimbus
- large cauliflower-shaped towers, often 'anvil tops'
sometimes giving thunderstorms, or showers of rain or
snow |
Most of the main cloud
types are often subdivided further on the basis of their shape,
structure and degree of transparency.
Related links
Cumulus
Cumulonimbus
Stratus
Cirriform Clouds
Stratocumulus and Altocumulus
Nature of Clouds
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