Fluffy clouds XD - pressure n height

In summary, cirrus clouds, made of ice crystals, occur at higher altitudes while cumulus clouds, made of water droplets, occur at lower altitudes. The temperature at altitudes less than 11km can be calculated using the formula T = To - Alpha*y, where To = 24.0 degrees celcius and Alpha = (6.00/1000m). By setting the temperature to 0 degrees celcius, the altitude y above which only one cirrus cloud can occur is found to be 4km.
  • #1
vorcil
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Homework Statement



Puffy cumulus clouds, which are made of water droplets, occur at lower altitudes in the atmosphere. Wispy cirrus clouds, which are made of ice crystals, occur only at higher altitudes. On a typical day and at altitudes less than 11km
the temperature at an altitude y, can be given by T = To - Alpha*y
where To = 24.0 degrees celcius and Alpha = (6.00/1000m)

Find the altitude y(measured from sea level) above which only one cirrus clouds can occur

express your answer numberically in kilometers, using three significant figures.



Homework Equations



the ones above



The Attempt at a Solution



No idea really how to approach the problem
but i know it includes phase transition?
anyone care for a good ol explanation? XD cheers
 
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  • #2
should i use the law of an ideal gas?
 
  • #3
Bah didn't read the question properly, it was bloody easy

it says the the cirrus clouds are made of ice crystals so i assumed the temperature was
0 degrees celcius

solving with the formula given i got 4000m or 4km high up is where cirrus clouds form
 

1. What causes the fluffy appearance of clouds?

Clouds appear fluffy because they are made up of tiny water droplets or ice crystals that are suspended in the air. These droplets and crystals scatter light, giving the clouds a soft, white appearance.

2. How does pressure affect the height of clouds?

The height of clouds is primarily determined by the atmospheric pressure. As air rises and cools, it becomes less dense, causing it to expand and form clouds. The higher the pressure, the higher the clouds can form.

3. What is the relationship between cloud height and temperature?

The height of clouds is also affected by the temperature of the air. As the temperature decreases, the air becomes less able to hold moisture, and clouds will form at a lower height. Conversely, warmer air can hold more moisture, resulting in clouds forming at higher altitudes.

4. How do fluffy clouds affect the weather?

Fluffy clouds, also known as cumulus clouds, are a type of low-level cloud that usually indicates fair weather. However, if they continue to grow and develop vertically, they can turn into thunderstorm clouds, which can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning.

5. Can the height of clouds change over time?

Yes, the height of clouds can change over time due to changing atmospheric conditions. For example, if the temperature or pressure changes, the height of the clouds will also change. Additionally, winds can cause the clouds to move and change shape, altering their height from our perspective on the ground.

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