Which cloud type is high elevation and layered across the sky?

Which cloud type is high elevation and layered across the sky?

• A. Cirrus
• B. Cirrostratus
• C. Cumulus
• D. Stratus

Answer: (B)

Clouds that sit very high in the atmosphere and form a broad, continuous sheet across the sky are cirrostratus. The term cirro- signals the high altitude, while -stratus indicates a layered, veil-like appearance. Cirrostratus clouds spread out to blanket large portions of the sky in a thin, translucent layer and can create halos around the sun or moon. This combination of high elevation and a uniform layer makes cirrostratus the best fit. Cirrus clouds are also high, but they’re wispy and discrete rather than a full sheet. Cumulus are puffy and usually have vertical development, not a uniform layer. Stratus form a low, flat, gray layer and occur at lower elevations.

Clouds that sit very high in the atmosphere and form a broad, continuous sheet across the sky are cirrostratus. The term cirro- signals the high altitude, while -stratus indicates a layered, veil-like appearance. Cirrostratus clouds spread out to blanket large portions of the sky in a thin, translucent layer and can create halos around the sun or moon. This combination of high elevation and a uniform layer makes cirrostratus the best fit.

Cirrus clouds are also high, but they’re wispy and discrete rather than a full sheet. Cumulus are puffy and usually have vertical development, not a uniform layer. Stratus form a low, flat, gray layer and occur at lower elevations.