Marriska+Essrig

= __//**Lens Shaped Cloud**//__ =



How are typical clouds formed?

Water vapor in the air clings to other numerous particles or dust, from automobiles, fire, bacteria, etc., found in the atmosphere.As the water vapor rises, it cools. The lower the temperature of the air gets, the less capacity it has to hold water vapor. Eventually, the rising water vapor condenses to form clouds.

The cloud seen over this mountain iscalled a lenticular cloud. These types of clouds form only at high altitudes, usually over mountains. They are stationary and lens-shaped, The formation of these clouds had a lot to do with the waves of the air and the temperature at the crests of these waves. Depending on the waves, lenticular clouds can affect the weather.

So, what causes lenticular clouds to form?

Where moist air flows over a mountain, large-scale standing waves may form on the downwind side. At the crest of these waves, lenticular clouds are sometimes formed. A formation called a wave cloud (pictured below) may be formed in certain conditions when long strings of lenticular clouds are formed. These wave clouds can cause large vertical air movements so enough water vapor may condense to produce precipitation. Lenticular clouds are often mistaken for U.F.O.s because of their characteristic lens appearance and smooth saucer-like shape.

Applicable categories: weather, heat and waves Sources "Lenticular Clouds." //Www.Wikipedia.Com//. N.p., 17 Nov. 2011. Web. 17 Dec. 2011. . Crystal, Ellie. "Lenticular Clouds." //Www.CrystalLinks.Com//. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Dec. 2011. .