Perlucidus is a cloud variety that generally appears in only two cloud types, those being altocumulus and stratocumulus. Perlucidus cloud is easily recognizable by the small ubiquitous gaps that let higher clouds be seen.[1] It forms when shallow convection starts in a cloud layer that did not previously have perlucidus variety characteristics.[2] The gaps between the cloud indicate regions where air is sinking.[3] This cloud variety may appear either as a translucent cloud or an opaque cloud.
| Perlucidus | |
|---|---|
 Altocumulus perlucidus | |
| Abbreviation | pe |
| Genus | stratocumulus, altocumulus |
| Variety | perlucidus |
| Altitude | 500-7,000 m (2,000-23,000 ft) |
| Appearance | Cloud cover with small gaps that make higher cloud types be visible |
| Precipitation | Depends on the cloud type this variety is appearing in |
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "Perlucidus". International Cloud Atlas.
- ^ "ALTOCUMULUS PERLUCIDUS CLOUDS". www.backyardnature.net.
- ^ "Stratocumulus: These low, lumpy cloud layers form below 6,000 feet and can appear in rows, patches or as rounded masses with blue sky in between the cloud elements. The color of stratocumulus clouds can range from white to dark gray. Precipitation rarely falls from stratocumulus clouds. The individual cloud elements form where the air is rising while the blue sky in between the cloud elements indicates sinking air". 2014-01-02. Archived from the original on 2 January 2014. Retrieved 2022-02-04.
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