Which cloud type is mid-level; may or may not be associated with precipitation?

Which cloud type is mid-level; may or may not be associated with precipitation?

• A. Altostratus/Altocumulus Clouds
• B. Cirrus Clouds
• C. Cumulonimbus Cloud
• D. Fog

Answer: (A)

Clouds are grouped by the height at which they form. Mid-level clouds form in the middle part of the troposphere. The ones that fit this description and may or may not bring precipitation are altostratus and altocumulus. They appear as gray sheets or patches at medium altitude, roughly between about 6,500 and 20,000 feet. They can bring light rain or drizzle, but not always; sometimes you’ll see them without any significant precipitation. Cirrus clouds sit higher up—thin, wispy strands—so they aren’t mid-level and usually don’t bring precipitation down to the surface. Cumulonimbus clouds are tall, stormy clouds that typically deliver heavy rain, thunder, and strong winds. Fog stays near the ground, forming at ground level rather than at mid-altitude.

Clouds are grouped by the height at which they form. Mid-level clouds form in the middle part of the troposphere. The ones that fit this description and may or may not bring precipitation are altostratus and altocumulus. They appear as gray sheets or patches at medium altitude, roughly between about 6,500 and 20,000 feet. They can bring light rain or drizzle, but not always; sometimes you’ll see them without any significant precipitation.

Cirrus clouds sit higher up—thin, wispy strands—so they aren’t mid-level and usually don’t bring precipitation down to the surface. Cumulonimbus clouds are tall, stormy clouds that typically deliver heavy rain, thunder, and strong winds. Fog stays near the ground, forming at ground level rather than at mid-altitude.