Cirrus floccus

Cirrus floccus
Abbreviation Ci flo
Symbol
Genus Cirrus (curl of hair)
Species floccus (flaked or puffy)
Altitude Above 5,000 m
(Above 16,500 ft)
Classification Family A (High-level)
Appearance small tufts
Precipitation cloud? Occasionally virga

Cirrus floccus is a type of cirrus cloud. The name cirrus floccus is derived from Latin, meaning "a lock of wool".[1] Cirrus floccus occurs as small tufts of cloud, usually with a ragged base. The cloud can have virga falling from it, but the precipitation does not reach the ground.[2] The individual tufts are usually isolated from each other.[3] At formation, the cirrus floccus clouds are bright white and can be mistaken for altocumulus clouds; however, after a few minutes, the brightness begins to fade, indicating they are made up of pure ice, and are therefore at a higher level.[4]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Numen - The Latin Lexicon. "Definition of floccus". Retrieved 13 July 2011.
  2. ↑ Dunlop, Storm (2003). The weather identification handbook (1st Lyons Press ed. ed.). Guilford, Conn.: Lyons Press. p. 57. ISBN 1-58574-857-9. Retrieved 13 July 2011.
  3. ↑ Callanan, Martin. "Cirrus floccus". International Cloud Atlas. nephology.eu. Retrieved 13 July 2011.
  4. ↑ Institute of Atmospheric Sciences at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. "Cirrus (floccus)". A Guide to the Sky. Retrieved 13 July 2011.

External links