Some clouds appear darker than others primarily because of their thickness and density.
Here's a breakdown:
Cloud Thickness and Light Absorption
- Thicker clouds absorb more light: According to research, the thicker the cloud, the less light that can pass through it. This results in the cloud appearing darker to us on the ground.
- Water Droplet Size: Clouds with larger water droplets scatter more light. Very thick and tall clouds scatter more light before it reaches the ground, making the cloud appear darker.
Dark Clouds and Severe Weather
Darker clouds are often associated with severe storms. This is because the conditions that create very thick, tall, and light-absorbent clouds also favor the development of storm conditions.
Summary Table: Cloud Darkness Factors
| Factor | Effect on Cloud Darkness | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | Darker | More light absorbed; less light reflected. |
| Water Droplet Size | Darker | Larger droplets scatter more light before it reaches the ground. |
| Height | Darker | Taller clouds scatter more light. |
