The question asks about the meaning of the Latin prefix or root word 'Nimbus' when associated with cloud names. Understanding common meteorological terminology is key to answering this question.
Correct Option: C) Rain-bearing nature
The question asks to classify clouds based on their altitude range. Cloud classification is primarily done based on their height in the atmosphere. We need to recall the standard altitude ranges for different cloud types.
Correct Option: C) High clouds are found at altitudes between approximately 6,000 metres and 12,000 metres (20,000–40,000 ft).
The question asks to identify the type of cloud that is found at great altitudes and is composed almost entirely of ice crystals. This requires knowledge of different cloud types and their composition based on their altitude.
Based on this analysis, Cirrus clouds fit the description of being at great altitude and composed almost entirely of ice crystals.
B) Cirrus — Cirrus clouds are high-level clouds (above 6,000 meters or 20,000 feet) where temperatures are well below freezing. Consequently, they are made up almost entirely of ice crystals, giving them their characteristic wispy, fibrous appearance.
The question asks to identify the typical appearance of Cirrus clouds. This requires knowledge of different cloud types and their characteristic features.
Correct Option: C) Thin, white, feathery and fibrous filaments
The question asks to identify a specific type of cirrus cloud based on its appearance: small white globular masses or ripples, often resembling a 'mackerel sky'. This description points to a particular cloud classification.
B) Cirrocumulus is the correct answer because cirrocumulus clouds are high-level clouds that appear as small, white, rounded patches or ripples, often arranged in rows. Their appearance is frequently described as a "mackerel sky" due to their resemblance to fish scales.
The question asks for the best description of Cirrostratus clouds. To answer this, we need to recall the characteristics of different cloud types, particularly high-level clouds like Cirrostratus.
Correct Option: A) Thin, whitish veil-like sheets that often cover the whole sky and produce halos around the sun or moon