Cumulonimbus clouds are towering, dense clouds associated with thunderstorms and unstable atmospheric conditions. Known as “thunderheads,” they can span the entire height of the troposphere, often developing a flat, anvil-shaped top where they hit the tropopause. They are the primary source of heavy rain, lightning, thunder, hail and occasionally tornadoes. ANSWER: (C) Cumulonimbus
Which type of cloud is often called a ‘Thunderhead’? (A) Altostratus (B) Cirrocumulus (C) Cumulonimbus (D) Nimbostratus
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A cumulonimbus cloud begins as a small cumulus cloud but grows vertically due to intense thermal convection. As moisture condenses, it releases latent heat, which further fuels the upward movement of air. These clouds are unique because they possess internal “updrafts” and “downdrafts” that create the friction necessary for electrical charging (lightning). When the top of the cloud reaches the stable layer of the stratosphere, it spreads out horizontally, forming the “anvil” shape. Because of their immense energy and height, they are a major focus for severe weather forecasting and aviation safety.
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