Yes, fog is a cloud that forms at ground level.
Understanding Fog and Clouds
The primary difference between fog and clouds lies solely in their altitude. Clouds form at various altitudes, from just above the ground to as high as 12 miles above sea level. Fog, however, is specifically defined as a cloud that touches the ground. NOAA SciJinks and multiple Reddit discussions confirm this, stating that fog and clouds are essentially the same phenomenon, differing only in their location relative to the earth's surface. r/explainlikeimfive, r/weather
Both fog and clouds are visible moisture, formed when water vapor in the air cools and condenses into liquid water or ice. Fog, however, forms when this cooling occurs near the ground, resulting in reduced visibility. The height at which fog begins is defined as lower than 50 feet. weather.gov
Key Similarities and Differences Summarized:
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Similarities: Both fog and clouds consist of tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air. They both form through the same process of condensation.
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Difference: The key difference is altitude. Fog is a cloud at ground level, while clouds form at various altitudes above the ground.
