Chapter 4 Microphysical Structures of Stratiform and Cirrus Clouds

摘要: Publisher Summary This chapter summarizes measurements of the physical and microphysical structures stratus, stratocumulus, altostratus, cirrus clouds, which are thought to have greatest effect on climate because large areas they cover. These clouds can be loosely classified according phase(s) condensate: liquid, mixed-phase, ice, respectively. Stratus layers or patches low, often grey, that hardly definition rarely produce precipitation. Altostratus appear as gray bluish sheets layers, ranging from several hundreds thousands meters thick, covering entire sky. The variously striated, fibrous, uniform in aspect. Altocumulus form mid-troposphere, distinct less than 100 m thick. From ground, altocumulus identified by their sharp outlines, enclosing rounded convective elements. Cirrus detached white, delicate filaments mostly white narrow bands, composed almost exclusively ice crystals. Dense tufts may contain crystals enough acquire appreciable fallspeeds; extended trails virga sometimes seen below such clouds. Wind shear particle size affect shape trails. One type displaying these features is uncinus; it comma-shaped, terminating at top a hook tuft, presumably an generation region.