Question

Match the column and complete the chain: 

A	B	C
(A) Cirrus	(i) Vertical extent in the sky	(a) Roaring clouds
(B) Cumulonimbus	(ii) higher altitude	(b) Floating clouds
(C) Nimbostratus	(iii) Medium altitude	(c)continuous rainfall
(D) Alto-cumulus	(iv) Low altitude	(d) snow flake clouds

Answer 1

A	B	C
(A) Cirrus	(ii) Higher altitude	(d) Snow flake clouds
(B) Cumulonimbus	(i) Vertical extent in the sky	(a) roaring clouds
(C) Nimbostratus	(iv) Low altitude	(c) continuous rain
(D) Alto-cumulus	(iii) Medium altitude	(b) floating clouds

1. Explanation: Cirrus is a high-level cloud with an altitude of 7000 to 14000 meters. They are called snowflakes because they are composed of ice particles.
2. Explanation: Cumulonimbus are mountain-like, huge vertical clouds that are formed as a result of strong upward water vapour currents in the atmosphere.
   They are known as roaring clouds as they are responsible for thunderstorms and lightening.
3. Explanation: Nimbostratus clouds are low-level clouds with an altitude of fewer than 2000 meters. They are dark and have dense layers, which block the sun and hence cause continuous and persistent rains.
4. Explanation: Alto-cumulus is a mid-level cloud with an altitude of about 2000 to 7000 meters. They contain water droplets and appear puffy. Due to condensation, the clouds become light weight and float in the air. Hence they are called floating clouds.