Chapter 31, Problem 12RQ

To determine

The clouds that most likely form rain or snow.

Answer to Problem 12RQ

The cloud that most likely produces rain or snow is nimbostratus.

Explanation of Solution

The nimbostratus is the cloud that comes under the category of clouds classified on the basis of their height in the atmosphere. The nimbostratus clouds bring precipitation, that is, rain or snow. This precipitation remains for many hours.

The ‘nimbo’ prefix used before the nimbostratus denotes the rain. These clouds form 2000 meters from the surface of the Earth and are responsible for the precipitation and production of rain or snow.

The nimbostratus clouds are low-level clouds. These clouds are full of moisture and are responsible for the production of rain or snow. The rain or snow is most likely to be produced by the nimbostratus clouds.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the cloud that most likely produces rain or snow is nimbostratus.