A feather cloud is another name for a cirrus cloud. These clouds are known for their delicate, wispy appearance.
Understanding Cirrus Clouds
Cirrus clouds are unique due to their composition and formation:
- Made of Ice Crystals: They are primarily composed of ice crystals, unlike lower clouds that are made of water droplets. The high altitude where cirrus clouds form results in very cold temperatures which cause the water to freeze.
- Wispy Appearance: Cirrus clouds appear as thin, feathery strands or patches.
- Wind-Shaped: The characteristic wispy shape of cirrus clouds is a result of wind currents. These winds twist and spread the ice crystals, creating their unique look. As the reference states, the wind currents "twist and spread the ice crystals into strands".
Key Characteristics Summarized:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | Primarily ice crystals |
| Appearance | Thin, wispy, and feathery strands or patches |
| Formation | High altitudes |
| Shaping Factor | Wind currents |
Why "Feather Cloud"?
The term "feather cloud" is a very descriptive name. The cloud's wispy, elongated shape closely resembles a bird's feather, hence the nickname.
Cirrus clouds, or feather clouds, are often a sign of approaching weather changes. While they don't typically produce precipitation themselves, they can sometimes indicate an approaching storm system.
