The best evidence of vertical wind shear in this development of a multi-cell thunderstorm is at
A) cumulus stage.
B) cloud merger stage.
C) dissipating stage.
D) mature stage.

Question

The best evidence of vertical wind shear in this development of a multi-cell thunderstorm is at  
A) cumulus stage.
B) cloud merger stage.
C) dissipating stage.
D) mature stage.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mature stage is the best choice because it is during this stage that the thunderstorm has reached its maximum height and therefore is most susceptible to vertical wind shear. At this stage, the updrafts and downdrafts within the storm are strongest, making it easier for the wind shear to affect the structure of the storm. The cumulus stage is too early in the storm's development for wind shear to have a significant impact, and the cloud merger stage and dissipating stage are too late in the storm's development for wind shear to be as much of a factor.

The Best Evidence of Vertical Wind Shear in This Development