Clouds Pilots Training Flashcards
(174 cards)
1
Q
What is the main factor that determines cloud type?
A
Stability and moisture content
Cloud types vary based on the stability of the atmosphere and the amount of moisture present.
2
Q
What must happen for clouds or fog to form?
A
Water vapour must change into liquid or solid
This process involves the transformation of water vapour into water droplets or ice crystals.
3
Q
What is necessary for air to become saturated?
A
The air must cool to the dew point temperature or contain enough water vapour
Saturation occurs when the air can no longer hold the moisture, leading to condensation.
4
Q
What is the most common method for lowering air temperature to achieve saturation?
A
Rising air (lifting process)
As air rises, it expands and cools, often reaching the dew point.
5
Q
List three ways clouds or fog can form.
A
- Lowering air temperature to dew point
- Adding water vapour into the air
- Mixing warm moist air with cold air
These processes help in achieving the necessary conditions for cloud formation.
6
Q
True or False: Clouds can only form when air is cooled.
A
False
Clouds can also form by adding moisture to the air or mixing different air masses.
7
Q
What is cloud coverage reported in?
A
Oktas or eighths of the celestial dome
8
Q
What does SKC stand for in cloud coverage categories?
A
Clear Sky
9
Q
What does FEW indicate in cloud coverage?
A
1/8 to 2/8 of the sky covered
10
Q
What is the coverage percentage for SCT?
A
3/8 to 4/8 of the sky covered
11
Q
What does BKN mean in cloud coverage terms?
A
Broken, 5/8 to less than 8/8 covered
12
Q
What is the meaning of OVC in cloud coverage?
A
Overcast, 8/8 covered
13
Q
Fill in the blank: Cloud coverage is reported in _______.
A
Oktas or eighths of the celestial dome
14
Q
True or False: Cloud coverage can be reported in four categories.
A
False
15
Q
List the five basic categories of cloud coverage.
A
- SKC: Clear Sky
- FEW: 1/8 to 2/8 of the sky covered
- SCT: 3/8 to 4/8 of the sky covered
- BKN: 5/8 to less than 8/8 covered
- OVC: 8/8 covered
16
Q
What is a ceiling in aviation terms?
A
A ceiling is said to exist whenever the sky is either BKN or OVC.
17
Q
What percentage of the sky must be covered for a ceiling to exist?
A
5/8ths of the sky covered.
18
Q
Are VFR pilots permitted to fly above a BKN or OVC layer?
A
No, VFR pilots are NOT permitted to fly above a BKN or OVC layer.
19
Q
What is required for VFR pilots to fly above a BKN or OVC layer?
A
A VFR OTT rating.
20
Q
What does VV stand for in a METAR or TAF?
A
Vertical Visibility.
21
Q
What does V001 indicate in aviation weather reports?
A
Ceiling obscured at 100 feet.
22
Q
Fill in the blank: A ceiling is defined when the cloud coverage is equal to or greater than _______.
A
5/8ths of the sky covered.
23
Q
True or False: VFR pilots can fly above a BKN layer if they have a VFR OTT rating.
A
True.
24
Q
What does the 1:60 Rule refer to in navigation?
A
It is a rule used to estimate distance based on a given angle in navigation.
25
How are ceilings depicted on the GFA?
Ceilings are depicted with a scalloped border.
26
What does BKN stand for in weather reports?
Broken clouds.
27
What does SCT mean in aviation weather terminology?
Scattered clouds.
28
What does AGL stand for?
Above Ground Level.
29
Fill in the blank: BKN40 indicates a ceiling of _______.
broken clouds at 4000 feet.
30
True or False: The GFA includes information about cloud cover.
True.
31
What does the abbreviation QNH refer to?
Air pressure at sea level.
32
List two types of cloud coverage that can be reported.
* BKN (Broken)
* SCT (Scattered)
33
What does the term 'CIGS' refer to in aviation?
Ceiling.
34
How are ceilings depicted on the GFA?
Ceilings are depicted with a scalloped border.
35
What does BKN stand for in weather reports?
Broken clouds.
36
What does SCT mean in aviation weather terminology?
Scattered clouds.
37
True or False: The GFA includes information about cloud cover.
True.
38
List two types of cloud coverage that can be reported.
* BKN (Broken)
* SCT (Scattered)
39
What does the term 'CIGS' refer to in aviation?
Ceiling.
40
What are the four families into which clouds are classified?
Based on height and vertical development
## Footnote
The families are stratiform and cumuli-form.
41
What is the key characteristic of stratiform clouds?
Develop horizontally
## Footnote
Stratiform clouds are often associated with fog and low visibility.
42
What is the key characteristic of cumuli-form clouds?
Develop vertically
## Footnote
Cumuliform clouds are typically associated with more dynamic weather.
43
Which cloud family is associated with fog and low visibility?
Stratus family
## Footnote
Stratus clouds are typically low and can cover large areas.
44
What does the cloud classification system describe?
Approximate altitude and appearance
## Footnote
This helps in understanding the types of clouds and their potential weather implications.
45
What are the four classifications of clouds?
* High Clouds
* Middle Clouds
* Low Clouds
* Clouds with Vertical Development
46
What are the four classifications of clouds?
* High Clouds
* Middle Clouds
* Low Clouds
* Clouds with Vertical Development
47
What are high clouds?
Clouds found at altitudes between 20000 ft and 40000 ft
## Footnote
High clouds include Cirrus (CI), Cirrostratus (CS), and Cirrocumulus (CC)
48
List the types of high clouds.
* Cirrus (CI)
* Cirrostratus (CS)
* Cirrocumulus (CC)
## Footnote
High clouds are characterized by their presence at high altitudes.
49
Fill in the blank: High clouds are found at altitudes between _______ and _______.
20000 ft and 40000 ft
50
What are Cirrostratus clouds composed of?
Ice crystals
## Footnote
Cirrostratus clouds are high-level clouds that are sheet-like in appearance.
51
What happens to Cirrostratus clouds as a warm front approaches?
They tend to thicken
## Footnote
This thickening signifies an increased production of ice crystals.
52
What is the primary characteristic of Cirrostratus clouds?
Sheet-like high-level clouds
## Footnote
These clouds are composed of ice crystals.
53
Fill in the blank: Cirrostratus clouds are composed of _______.
ice crystals
54
True or False: Cirrostratus clouds indicate clear weather.
False
## Footnote
They signify an impending change in weather, particularly with the approach of a warm front.
55
What is Cirrocumulus (CC)?
A somewhat rare cloud type that appears as a white sheet with a pebbly pattern and is characterized by high ice crystals.
56
How does Cirrocumulus (CC) typically appear?
As a white sheet with a pebbly pattern.
57
What are the characteristics of Cirrocumulus (CC)?
High ice crystals.
58
True or False: Cirrocumulus clouds are common.
False
59
What is the altitude range for middle clouds?
Between 6,500 ft to 20,000 ft.
60
Name a type of middle cloud.
Altostratus (AS)
61
Name another type of middle cloud.
Altocumulus (AC)
62
What is the third type of middle cloud?
Altocumulus Castellanus (ACC)
63
Fill in the blank: Middle clouds are found at altitudes between ______ and ______.
6,500 ft, 20,000 ft
64
True or False: Altostratus clouds are a type of middle cloud.
True
65
True or False: Middle clouds are always found below 6,500 ft.
False
66
What is the altitude range for middle clouds?
Between 6,500 ft to 20,000 ft.
67
Name a type of middle cloud.
Altostratus (AS)
68
Name another type of middle cloud.
Altocumulus (AC)
69
What is the third type of middle cloud?
Altocumulus Castellanus (ACC)
70
Fill in the blank: Middle clouds are found at altitudes between ______ and ______.
6,500 ft, 20,000 ft
71
True or False: Altostratus clouds are a type of middle cloud.
True
72
True or False: Middle clouds are always found below 6,500 ft.
False
73
What type of clouds are described as puffy 'cotton ball' type clouds?
Altocumullus (AC)
## Footnote
Altocumullus clouds are often seen in warm and humid conditions.
74
What weather phenomenon may follow Altocumullus clouds on a warm and humid summer morning?
Thunderstorms
## Footnote
These clouds can indicate the potential for thunderstorms later in the day.
75
Where is icing usually present in Altocumullus clouds?
Above the freezing level
## Footnote
Icing is especially heavy near the top of the cloud.
76
True or False: Altocumullus clouds are typically associated with cold weather.
False
## Footnote
They are more commonly associated with warm and humid summer conditions.
77
Fill in the blank: Icing in Altocumullus clouds is especially heavy near the _______.
top of the cloud
## Footnote
This is critical for pilots to consider during flight.
78
What is Stratus (ST)?
Low layer cloud. Smooth air. Resembles fog but does not rest on the ground. No waves or patterns, 'grey.'
79
What type of cloud is Altostratus?
Layer cloud with no definite pattern
## Footnote
Altostratus clouds are typically found at mid-level altitudes.
80
What color are Altostratus clouds typically?
Steely or bluish in color
## Footnote
This coloration can affect the overall appearance of the sky.
81
Can the sun or moon be seen through Altostratus clouds?
Yes, sometimes the sun or moon can be seen dimly through
## Footnote
This is due to the cloud's thin nature.
82
How does the sun appear when viewed through Altostratus clouds?
As if behind heavily frosted glass
## Footnote
This effect creates a diffused light appearance.
83
What type of precipitation do Altostratus clouds produce?
Light drizzle
## Footnote
They are incapable of producing heavy precipitation.
84
What type of clouds are Alto Cumulus Castellanus (ACC)?
Clouds created from instability associated with air flows having marked vertical shear and weak thermal stratification.
85
What conditions lead to the formation of ACC clouds?
Instability associated with air flows having marked vertical shear and weak thermal stratification.
86
Fill in the blank: ACC clouds are created from _______.
instability associated with air flows
87
True or False: ACC clouds indicate strong thermal stratification.
False
88
List the types of low clouds.
* Stratus (ST)
* Nimbostratus (NS)
* Stratocumulus (SC)
* Stratus Fractus (SF)
* Cumulus Fractus (CF)
## Footnote
Each type of low cloud has distinct characteristics and implications for flight.
89
At what altitude are low clouds typically found?
Between the surface to 6500 ft
## Footnote
This altitude range can have implications for aviation and weather patterns.
90
True or False: Nimbostratus is a type of low cloud.
True
## Footnote
Nimbostratus clouds are associated with continuous precipitation.
91
Fill in the blank: The type of low cloud characterized by a layer of gray clouds that often brings rain is called _______.
Nimbostratus (NS)
## Footnote
Nimbostratus clouds are thick and uniform, leading to overcast conditions.
92
Which type of low cloud is known for its fluffy appearance?
Cumulus Fractus (CF)
## Footnote
Cumulus Fractus clouds appear as broken or fragmented cumulus clouds.
93
What is Stratocumulus (SC) known for?
Low, lumpy clouds that often cover the sky in patches
## Footnote
Stratocumulus clouds can indicate fair weather but may also bring light precipitation.
94
Fill in the blank: The abbreviation for Stratus Fractus is _______.
SF
## Footnote
Stratus Fractus clouds are fragmented stratus clouds that can be seen in lower altitudes.
95
What are Stratus clouds known for?
Drizzle or freezing drizzle
## Footnote
Stratus clouds typically produce light precipitation.
96
What is the nature of updrafts associated with Stratus clouds?
Very weak
## Footnote
Weak updrafts result in larger droplets settling earthward.
97
What happens to larger droplets in Stratus clouds as they sink?
They strike and coalesce with other droplets and grow
## Footnote
This process contributes to the formation of drizzle.
98
What is the final outcome of the droplets in Stratus clouds?
They sink out of the cloud base as drizzle
## Footnote
This process is a key characteristic of Stratus cloud behavior.
99
What type of clouds are Nimbostratus (NS)?
Dark, low-level clouds often accompanied by steady, light to moderate continuous precipitation.
## Footnote
Nimbostratus clouds are characterized by their dark appearance and are typically associated with prolonged precipitation.
100
What are low clouds primarily composed of?
Water droplets.
## Footnote
Low clouds generally lie below 6,500 feet.
101
What does the prefix 'nimbus' indicate?
Precipitation.
## Footnote
The term 'nimbus' is used to denote clouds that produce precipitation.
102
At what altitude do low clouds generally have their bases?
Below 6,500 feet.
## Footnote
This altitude is a defining characteristic of low clouds.
103
What is Stratocumulus (SC)?
Low, lumpy layer of clouds.
104
What type of precipitation is sometimes associated with Stratocumulus clouds?
Weak intensity precipitation.
105
What range of precipitation intensity can Stratocumulus clouds produce?
From light to heavy showers.
106
What is the main type of precipitation produced by Stratocumulus clouds?
Drizzle.
107
True or False: Stratocumulus clouds are known for producing heavy thunderstorms.
False.
108
What is Stratus Fractus (SF)?
A stratus cloud that has been torn by wind into fragments
## Footnote
Drizzle may fall from these clouds.
109
What type of precipitation may fall from Stratus Fractus clouds?
Drizzle
## Footnote
Stratus Fractus clouds are associated with light precipitation.
110
What type of cloud is characterized by rounded tops?
Cumulus Fractus (CF)
## Footnote
Cumulus Fractus clouds are formed by wind and can be differentiated from Stratus Fractus by their more rounded appearances.
111
What distinguishes Stratocumulus from Cumulus Fractus?
Stratus Fractus has less rounded tops compared to Cumulus Fractus
## Footnote
The distinction is based on the shape of the cloud tops, with Cumulus Fractus exhibiting more rounded forms.
112
True or False: Cumulus Fractus clouds are formed by still air.
False
## Footnote
Cumulus Fractus clouds are formed by wind.
113
Fill in the blank: Cumulus Fractus clouds can be differentiated from _______ by their more rounded tops.
Stratus Fractus
114
What is a key characteristic of Stratocumulus clouds?
They are formed in layers and have a flat base
## Footnote
Stratocumulus clouds typically appear as large, lumpy masses covering the sky.
115
What is the appearance of Cumulus (CU) clouds?
Floating cotton or 'popcorn popping'
## Footnote
Cumulus clouds are characterized by their fluffy, white appearance.
116
What is the lifetime of Cumulus (CU) clouds?
5-40 minutes
## Footnote
The duration of Cumulus clouds can vary based on atmospheric conditions.
117
What do Cumulus (CU) clouds indicate?
Presence of significant vertical currents at low levels without precipitation
## Footnote
Cumulus clouds form due to rising warm air, indicating atmospheric instability.
118
True or False: Cumulus clouds are always harmless.
False
## Footnote
Under proper conditions, they can develop into towering cumulus (TCU) and cumulonimbus (CB) clouds, which are associated with thunderstorms.
119
Fill in the blank: Cumulus clouds can develop into _______ and then _______.
TCU; CB
## Footnote
TCU stands for towering cumulus, and CB stands for cumulonimbus, which can lead to severe weather.
120
What are the types of clouds associated with vertical development?
* Cumulus (CU)
* Towering Cumulus (TCU)
* Cumulonimbus (CB)
* Alto Cumulus Castellanus (ACC)
## Footnote
These clouds are characterized by their vertical growth and associated weather phenomena.
121
What is a characteristic of clouds during their development phase?
Have high proportion of supercooled water while developing
## Footnote
Supercooled water can contribute to icing conditions.
122
What happens to ice crystals in developing clouds?
Ice crystals will be found as the cell ceases to grow
## Footnote
This indicates a transition in the life cycle of the cloud.
123
What is the icing condition in new growth Cumulonimbus clouds?
Icing will be severe
## Footnote
New growth Cumulonimbus clouds are often associated with intense weather conditions.
124
What is the horizontal extent of icing in developing clouds?
Minimal
## Footnote
Despite severe icing, its horizontal spread is limited.
125
Fill in the blank: The cloud type known for towering vertical development is _______.
Towering Cumulus (TCU)
## Footnote
TCU is often a precursor to severe weather.
126
What is a Towering Cumulus (TCU)?
A growing cumulus cloud on the way to becoming a Cumulonimbus.
## Footnote
Towering Cumulus clouds are indicators of potential severe weather conditions.
127
Define Cumulonimbus.
A type of cloud associated with thunderstorms and severe weather.
## Footnote
Cumulonimbus clouds can produce heavy rain, lightning, and tornadoes.
128
What is the significance of cloud types in aviation?
They indicate weather conditions and potential hazards.
## Footnote
Different cloud types can affect flight safety and navigation.
129
Fill in the blank: Towering Cumulus clouds are on the way to becoming a _______.
Cumulonimbus
130
True or False: Towering Cumulus clouds are harmless and indicate clear weather.
False
## Footnote
Towering Cumulus clouds can signal the development of severe weather.
131
What is the primary characteristic of a Towering Cumulus cloud?
It is a growing cumulus cloud.
## Footnote
This growth can lead to the formation of thunderstorms.
132
What does the term 'cloud types' refer to in meteorology?
Different classifications of clouds based on their appearance and altitude.
## Footnote
Examples include Cumulus, Stratus, Cirrus, and Cumulonimbus.
133
What are Cumulonimbus clouds?
Cumulonimbus clouds are much larger and more vertically developed than fair weather cumulus.
## Footnote
They are associated with thunder and lightning.
134
What type of vertical currents are found in Cumulonimbus clouds?
Violent vertical currents that can exceed 50 KT and contain the greatest turbulence.
## Footnote
These currents contribute to severe weather conditions.
135
What is the maximum height that the tops of Cumulonimbus clouds can reach?
Up to 60,000 feet, depending on the height of the troposphere and the buoyancy of the updraft.
## Footnote
This height varies based on atmospheric conditions.
136
What does the suffix 'nimbus' mean?
Precipitation.
## Footnote
The prefix 'ni' also relates to precipitation.
137
True or False: Cumulonimbus clouds are typically associated with calm weather.
False.
## Footnote
They are associated with violent weather conditions.
138
What are Mammatus clouds?
Appendages protruding from the base of powerful cumulonimbus clouds
## Footnote
Mammatus clouds are often an indicator of severe weather conditions.
139
What do Mammatus clouds indicate about the atmosphere?
The atmosphere is extremely unstable
## Footnote
This instability can lead to severe weather phenomena.
140
What should you do if you see Mammatus clouds?
Steer well clear
## Footnote
Severe weather is imminent when Mammatus clouds are present.
141
What type of clouds are associated with severe weather?
Cumulonimbus clouds
## Footnote
These clouds can produce severe thunderstorms and other hazardous weather.
142
True or False: Mammatus clouds are a sign of stable atmospheric conditions.
False
## Footnote
They indicate an unstable atmosphere, often leading to severe weather.
143
Fill in the blank: Mammatus clouds are often found at the base of _______ clouds.
cumulonimbus
144
What is a potential weather phenomenon associated with Mammatus clouds?
Funnel clouds
## Footnote
Funnel clouds can develop in severe weather conditions.
145
What are Orographic Clouds?
Clouds developed when air is forced to rise by the earth's topography.
## Footnote
Orographic clouds often form on the windward side of mountains.
146
Fill in the blank: The _______ is an important tool in flight training.
[FlightLogger]
## Footnote
FlightLogger is often used for tracking flight hours and logging training details.
147
True or False: Clouds can only form at high altitudes.
False
## Footnote
Clouds can form at various altitudes depending on atmospheric conditions.
148
What is the primary factor that leads to the formation of Orographic Clouds?
The earth's topography.
## Footnote
This includes mountains and hills that force the air to rise.
149
What type of clouds are associated with strong updrafts and can indicate mountain wave activity?
Mountain Wave Clouds
## Footnote
Mountain wave clouds form in the presence of a moist layer of air over a mountain range.
150
What is the characteristic of a moist layer of air?
Contains significant moisture, often leading to cloud formation
## Footnote
Moist air is crucial for the development of various cloud types.
151
What is a very dry layer of air known for?
Inhibiting cloud formation
## Footnote
Very dry air can suppress weather systems and limit moisture availability.
152
What are Lenticular Clouds typically formed by?
Flow of air over mountains or other topographical features
## Footnote
Lenticular clouds often appear as lens-shaped clouds and are stationary.
153
What are Rotor Clouds associated with?
Turbulent air caused by airflow over mountain ridges
## Footnote
Rotor clouds can indicate severe turbulence and are often found beneath lenticular clouds.
154
Fill in the blank: Mountain Wave Clouds form in the presence of a _______.
moist layer of air
155
True or False: Very dry layers of air promote cloud formation.
False
156
What are the two main types of clouds discussed in relation to mountain wave activity?
Lenticular Clouds and Rotor Clouds
## Footnote
Both types of clouds indicate specific air movement patterns associated with terrain.
157
What type of clouds are associated with mountain wave activity?
Rotor Clouds
## Footnote
Rotor clouds typically form downwind and below each mountain wave crest.
158
Where do Rotor Clouds form in relation to mountain wave crests?
Downwind and below each mountain wave crest
## Footnote
This formation is due to the dynamics of the air rotation.
159
What is the behavior of Rotor Clouds during their formation?
Dissipating and forming at the same time
## Footnote
This is a result of the continuous rotation of the air.
160
True or False: Rotor Clouds are stable and do not change during their lifecycle.
False
## Footnote
Rotor clouds are characterized by their dynamic nature, constantly dissipating and forming.
161
What is a Cap Cloud?
A cloud that lies over the top of the mountain and extends partially down the leeward slopes, indicating an extremely strong downdraft.
162
True or False: A Cap Cloud indicates a weak downdraft.
False
163
Fill in the blank: A Cap Cloud indicates an extremely strong _______.
downdraft
164
What does a Cap Cloud signify about the weather conditions?
It indicates an extremely strong downdraft.
165
What is a contrail?
A cloud formed by the water vapour contained in the exhaust of jet engines.
166
What happens to water vapour in contrails at high altitudes?
The cold temperatures will instantly turn the vapour into ice crystals.
167
What do contrails resemble?
They most resemble a long thin line of cirrus cloud.
168
What can be observed if you watch a contrail closely?
You can see the winds aloft as they drift about.
169
Fill in the blank: Contrails are formed by the _______ contained in the exhaust of jet engines.
water vapour
170
True or False: Contrails can only be formed at low altitudes.
False
171
Fill in the blank: At high altitudes, water vapour in contrails turns into _______.
ice crystals
172
What are roll clouds associated with?
Thunderstorms
## Footnote
Roll clouds typically form in association with severe weather conditions, particularly thunderstorms.
173
What should you exercise around roll clouds?
Extreme caution
## Footnote
Roll clouds can indicate severe weather, and caution is necessary to avoid hazards.
174
Where may roll clouds form?
Near the main cloud base in the shear area where the downdraft comes out
## Footnote
This formation is linked to the dynamics of storm systems.
