Mammatus clouds

Why in news?

• NASA has released pictures of Mammatus clouds that appear like bubbles from the bottom hovering over Nebraska, a state in the Midwestern region of the United States.

About mammatus clouds:

• Mammatus clouds are some of the most unusual and distinctive cloud formations with a series of bulges or pouches emerging from the base of a cloud.
• The shape of mammatus formations can vary widely; from the classic protruding shape to a more elongated tube hanging from the cloud above.

How are mammatus clouds formed?

• Mammatus clouds are usually formed in association with large cumulonimbus clouds.
• Typically, turbulence within the cumulonimbus cloud will cause mammatus to form, especially on the underside of the projecting anvil as it rapidly descends to lower levels.
• This reverses the usual cloud-forming process of upward growth, making for an uneven cloud base.
• Mammatus clouds generally form in the most unstable cumulonimbus, meaning that there is also a chance of hail, heavy rain and lightning in the vicinity, and if the air is cold enough during winter they can produce snow.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding Mammatus clouds:

1. They are usually formed in association with large cumulonimbus clouds

2. They are associated with severe thunderstorms

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer – C???????