Which of the following surface conditions produces a cumulus cloud with the lowest base?
A)air temperature 32°C and dew point 4°C
B)air temperature 32°C and dew point -7°C
C)air temperature 32°C and dew point 10°C
D)air temperature 32°C and dew point 16°C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The base of a cumulus cloud is determined by the altitude at which the air temperature cools to the dew point, causing condensation. A smaller difference between the air temperature and the dew point means the air does not have to rise as much to cool to the dew point, resulting in a lower cloud base. Choice D, with an air temperature of 32°C and the highest dew point of 16°C, has the smallest temperature-dew point spread, leading to the lowest cloud base.

Which of the Following Surface Conditions Produces a Cumulus Cloud