FAA Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX)WeatherEasy
A pilot observes a rapidly developing cumulus cloud with a significant vertical extent and a 'cauliflower' appearance. What stage of thunderstorm development is this cloud likely in?
- ACumulus stage.
- BMature stage.
- CDissipating stage.
- DAnvil stage.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Cumulus stage.
The cumulus stage of a thunderstorm is characterized by continuous updrafts, leading to rapid vertical growth and a distinct 'cauliflower' or 'towering' appearance. There is little to no precipitation or lightning during this stage, but the cloud is actively building.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect; the mature stage involves both strong updrafts and downdrafts, heavy precipitation, lightning, and often an anvil top.
- C. Incorrect; the dissipating stage is characterized by downdrafts, decreasing precipitation, and a weakening storm.
- D. Incorrect; the anvil stage is part of the mature stage, where ice crystals are blown horizontally at the tropopause due to strong updrafts.
Cumulus Stage of Thunderstorm
The initial stage of thunderstorm development, characterized by strong, continuous updrafts and rapid vertical growth of a cumulus cloud.
- Cloud has a 'cauliflower' appearance, towering vertically.
- Updrafts dominate, with little to no precipitation or lightning.
- Lasts about 10-15 minutes, building towards the mature stage.
Memory trick: Cumulus Builds, Mature Rains, Dissipating Dries.