Suihkepilviä

Suihkepilviä are a type of cloud formation observed at high altitudes. They are not naturally occurring weather phenomena but are instead the result of the exhaust from aircraft engines. When an aircraft flies at high altitudes, typically above 8,000 meters, the hot, humid exhaust gases mix with the extremely cold air of the upper atmosphere. This rapid cooling causes the water vapor in the exhaust to condense and then freeze, forming tiny ice crystals. These ice crystals then spread out, creating visible trails that resemble clouds.

The appearance of suihkepilviä can vary depending on atmospheric conditions. In very dry air, the trails may dissipate quickly, becoming almost imperceptible. However, in more humid conditions, they can persist for longer periods, spreading out and becoming wider, sometimes forming thin, cirrus-like clouds that can linger for hours. These longer-lasting trails are sometimes referred to as "persistent suihkepilviä." The altitude of the aircraft, the temperature, and the humidity of the upper atmosphere are all factors that influence how long and how visible suihkepilviä remain. Scientists study suihkepilviä to understand atmospheric conditions and the potential impact of aviation on climate.