Clouds are classified based on their height above the ground and their appearance or texture. The height classification uses prefixes that indicate the cloud's altitude.
Here's a breakdown of the cloud classifications according to height, utilizing the root words from the provided reference:
| Height Category | Prefix | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Clouds | Cirro- | Composed primarily of ice crystals, high in the atmosphere. | Cirrus, Cirrocumulus, Cirrostratus |
| Mid-Level Clouds | Alto- | Found at mid-altitudes, composed of water droplets and ice crystals. | Altocumulus, Altostratus |
| Low Clouds | Strato- | Found at low altitudes, composed of water droplets. | Stratus, Stratocumulus |
| Vertical Clouds | Cumulo-/Nimbo- | Extend through multiple levels of the atmosphere. | Cumulus, Cumulonimbus (rain, precipitation) |
As indicated in the reference, the root words offer insight into cloud classification: Cirro- (curl of hair, high), Alto- (mid), Strato- (layer), Nimbo- (rain, precipitation), and Cumulo- (heap).
