Pilvistyminen

Pilvistyminen refers to the process of cloud formation in the Earth's atmosphere. It begins with evaporation, where water from surfaces like oceans, lakes, and rivers turns into invisible water vapor. This water vapor rises into the atmosphere. As the warm, moist air ascends, it cools. Cooler air can hold less water vapor than warmer air. When the air reaches its saturation point, a phenomenon known as condensation occurs. Tiny water droplets or ice crystals, depending on the temperature, form around microscopic particles in the air, such as dust or salt. These particles are called condensation nuclei. Billions of these droplets or crystals cluster together, becoming visible as clouds. The type and appearance of a cloud depend on factors like temperature, altitude, and the amount of water vapor present. Different cloud types, such as cumulus, stratus, and cirrus, indicate varying atmospheric conditions and can precede different weather patterns, including precipitation like rain, snow, or hail. The continuous cycle of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation is crucial for Earth's water cycle and weather systems.