Which is most likely to cause clouds to form in a previously clear sky? A warmer air mass moves into the area and rises.

A warmer air mass moves into the area and rises.

An air mass sinks and becomes colder.
An air mass sinks and becomes colder.

A colder air mass moves into the area and rises.
A colder air mass moves into the area and rises.

An air mass sinks and becomes warmer.

1 answer

The scenario most likely to cause clouds to form in a previously clear sky is:

A colder air mass moves into the area and rises.

When a colder air mass moves into an area, it can lift the warmer, moist air that is already present. As the warmer air rises, it cools. When it reaches its dew point, condensation occurs, leading to cloud formation.

In contrast, if a warmer air mass rises, it usually leads to clearer skies if it's not associated with significant moisture. Conversely, when an air mass sinks and becomes warmer, it tends to inhibit cloud formation, creating clearer skies.