Question
What physical state is water in at the cloud top? gas solid or mixed liquid
Ask by Mckenzie Sherman. in the United States
Feb 25,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
Water in clouds at the top is in the liquid state as tiny droplets.
Solution
In a typical cloud, the water is present as tiny droplets—that is, in the liquid state. Even though the cloud top may be very cold (often below 0°C), these droplets can remain in a supercooled liquid state. They are not water vapor (gas) and are not usually a mix of liquid and ice (solid) except in some specific clouds (like those in thunderstorms or where ice nuclei are more active). Therefore, the correct answer is liquid.
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
Like
error msg
Explain 
Simplify this solution Bonus Knowledge
At the cloud top, water primarily exists in a solid state, forming tiny ice crystals due to the cold temperatures found at higher altitudes. These ice crystals can conglomerate and eventually fall as precipitation when they become heavy enough. Interestingly, clouds can also contain a mixed state of liquid and solid. In warmer conditions, supercooled water droplets may exist alongside ice crystals, creating a fascinating interplay of phases in our atmosphere. This mix is crucial for cloud formation and precipitation dynamics!
