Which of the following sets of conditions would produce a cumulus cloud with the LOWEST base?
A)Air temperature 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 50 degrees Fahrenheit
B)Air temperature 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 40 degrees Fahrenheit
C)Air temperature 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 60 degrees Fahrenheit
D)Air temperature 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 20 degrees Fahrenheit
E)Air temperature 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 10 degrees Fahrenheit

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The base of a cumulus cloud is determined by the altitude at which the air temperature cools to the dew point temperature, causing condensation to occur. A smaller difference between the air temperature and the dew point temperature (as in option C) means the air does not have to rise as much to cool to the dew point, resulting in a lower cloud base.

Which of the Following Sets of Conditions Would Produce a Cumulus