How are clouds formed?

The formation of clouds is primarily a result of air containing moisture being cooled to its saturation point, leading to condensation. When moist air rises, it encounters lower atmospheric pressure and cooler temperatures. As this air cools, it can no longer hold all the moisture it contained in vapor form. Once it has cooled sufficiently to reach its dew point, the water vapor condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals, depending on the temperature. These droplets cluster together and form clouds.

This process highlights the importance of both temperature and humidity in cloud formation. It illustrates the role of condensation in transforming water vapor into visible cloud particles, which are crucial for various weather phenomena. Understanding this mechanism is essential for pilots, as cloud presence and type can significantly affect flight conditions and safety.