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  • Cloud Classification: Shapes and Altitudes Explained
    Clouds are classified by their shape and altitude.

    Here's a breakdown:

    * Shape: This refers to the general appearance of the cloud, and is used to categorize them into three main types:

    * Cumulus: These are puffy, cotton-like clouds.

    * Stratus: These are flat, layered clouds.

    * Cirrus: These are wispy, feathery clouds.

    * Altitude: This refers to the height of the cloud above the ground, and further divides the main cloud types into different levels:

    * High-level clouds: These are found above 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) and are mostly made of ice crystals.

    * Mid-level clouds: These are found between 2,000 and 6,000 meters (6,500 and 20,000 feet) and can be made of both water droplets and ice crystals.

    * Low-level clouds: These are found below 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) and are primarily made of water droplets.

    By combining these two factors, we can create a more specific classification system for clouds. For example, a "cumulonimbus" cloud is a towering, puffy cloud that reaches high into the atmosphere and often produces thunderstorms.

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