At what altitude range is high cloud typically found in tropical latitudes?

Prepare for the New Zealand CPL Meteorology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

High clouds in tropical latitudes are generally found at altitudes above 6 kilometers. This classification corresponds to cirrus, cirrostratus, and cirrocumulus clouds, which are characteristic of the upper troposphere. In tropical regions, where the atmosphere is warmer, the cloud formation processes tend to take place at higher altitudes compared to mid-latitudinal regions. Typically, these high-altitude clouds are composed of ice crystals and can extend even higher, but they are most commonly recognized within the 6 to over 10 kilometers range.

The classification of clouds into low, middle, and high altitudes is based on their formation height and temperature. Low-level clouds are generally found below 2 kilometers, while middle clouds peak at altitudes between 2 and 6 kilometers. Thus, the other choices do not accurately reflect the typical height range for high clouds in tropical latitudes. High-altitude cloud formation plays an essential role in various meteorological phenomena, including precipitation processes and climate dynamics, further underscoring their significance in weather observation and forecasting in these regions.

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