Is Cloud Movement Dependent On Wind?

In summary, clouds are a visible portion of air and their movement is dependent on wind. However, the Coriolis force also plays a role in the direction of the prevailing wind. Clouds are not stationary and can change shape with altitude due to local air flow generated by their heat of formation. They also have an impact on weather and climate through their ability to reflect sunlight and affect temperature.
  • #1
LightbulbSun
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It seems to make intuitive sense for cloud movement to be dependent on wind, but is it actually true? Isn't the Coriolis Force a bigger factor in cloud movement?
 
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  • #2
What else is a cloud than a visible portion of the air? When air moves it is called 'wind'. So what if a cloud moves? Of course all motions in a rotating system are subject to coriolis force.

Note also that wind at higher altitudes usually has another direction than the surface wind. See Buys Ballots law.

For completeness, the water droplets forming the clouds are falling very slowly, independent of the wind.
 
  • #3
Andre said:
What else is a cloud than a visible portion of the air? When air moves it is called 'wind'. So what if a cloud moves? Of course all motions in a rotating system are subject to coriolis force.

Note also that wind at higher altitudes usually has another direction than the surface wind. See Buys Ballots law.

For completeness, the water droplets forming the clouds are falling very slowly, independent of the wind.

Ah, thanks. Yeah, I should of remembered that clouds are just a visible portion of air.
 
  • #4
The reason why I asked the question is because I was wondering whether or not if clouds that were presently overhead would remain overhead if the winds remained calm.
 
  • #5
What the coriolis force does is affect the direction of the prevailing wind.
 
  • #6
You have asked about clouds and wind. Cloud motion portrays the wind the cloud is in. Clouds are horizontally passive. What would be unusual would be prolonged calm at cloud altitude to keep them in one place. Clouds form in rising moist air, generating local air flow by their heat of formation. This flow determines their shape, changing with altitude. The feathery cirrus clouds form in high air cold enough to force them to be ice, not water. Unlike dry air, clouds acquire heat from the Sun and Earth, letting them rise during the day and not fall out of the sky at night. Clouds act on light uniquely in what is called Mie scattering, shading and usually cooling the Earth below. They also reflect sunlight into space. They are therefore very important in weather and climate.
 

FAQ: Is Cloud Movement Dependent On Wind?

What is the relationship between cloud movement and wind?

The movement of clouds is highly dependent on wind. Wind is a major factor in determining the direction and speed at which clouds move. In fact, without wind, clouds would remain stationary in the sky.

How does wind affect the shape of clouds?

Wind can shape the appearance of clouds by pushing and pulling them in different directions. Strong winds can cause clouds to stretch out and become elongated, while gentle winds can create fluffy, rounded shapes.

Can clouds move in different directions than the wind?

Yes, it is possible for clouds to move in a different direction than the wind. This can happen due to a phenomenon called wind shear, where different layers of air are moving at different speeds and directions. However, wind is still the primary force driving cloud movement.

Are certain types of clouds more affected by wind than others?

Yes, some types of clouds are more affected by wind than others. For example, cumulus clouds, which are large, puffy clouds, are highly influenced by wind and can change shape and direction rapidly. On the other hand, stratus clouds, which are flat and layered, tend to move more slowly and steadily with the wind.

Can wind cause clouds to disappear?

Yes, wind can cause clouds to disappear. When winds are strong enough, they can break clouds apart and disperse them. This is often seen with cumulonimbus clouds, which can be blown apart by strong winds, resulting in a clear sky.

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