Cirrus floccus
Cirrus floccus is a type of cirrus cloud. The name cirrus floccus is derived from Latin, meaning "a lock of wool".[1] Cirrus floccus occurs as small tufts of cloud, usually with a ragged base. The cloud can have virga falling from it, but the precipitation does not reach the ground.[2] The individual tufts are usually isolated from each other.[3] At formation, the cirrus floccus clouds are bright white and can be mistaken for altocumulus clouds; however, after a few minutes, the brightness begins to fade, indicating they are made up of pure ice, and are therefore at a higher level.[4]
| Cirrus floccus | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | Ci flo |
| Symbol |  |
| Genus | Cirrus (curl of hair) |
| Species | floccus (flaked or puffy) |
| Altitude | Above 5,000 m (Above 16,500 ft) |
| Appearance | small tufts |
| Precipitation cloud? | Occasionally virga |
See also
References
- Numen - The Latin Lexicon. "Definition of floccus". Retrieved 13 July 2011.
- Dunlop, Storm (2003). The weather identification handbook (1st Lyons Press ed.). Guilford, Conn.: Lyons Press. p. 57. ISBN 1-58574-857-9.
- Callanan, Martin. "Cirrus floccus". International Cloud Atlas. nephology.eu. Retrieved 13 July 2011.
- Institute of Atmospheric Sciences at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. "Cirrus (floccus)". A Guide to the Sky. Retrieved 13 July 2011.
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