Lenticular formations are stationary lens-shaped clouds usually formed
by moist air rising in the high-altitude skies over a mountain or range
of mountains. The clouds are usually formed perpendicular to the
direction of the airflow, and are usually avoided by aircraft pilots
because of the turbulence associated with them. Due to their unusual
shape, they have been offered as an explanation for some Unidentified
Flying Object (UFO) sightings.
The cloud pattern depends upon the wind speed and the shape of the
mountains. A constant wind may produce clouds which are stable and
remain virtually stationary in the sky for long periods.
 |
| Lenticular cloud over Mt. Rainier Photograph by Tyler Mode |
 |
| Lenticular cloud over Mt. Rainier Photograph by Tyler Mode |
 |
| Lenticular Clouds over Washington's Mount Rainier Photograph by Arco Images/Alamy |
 |
| Lenticular cloud, Mauna Kea, Hawaii, US Image Credit : Science Photo Library / Rex Features |
 |
| Lenticular clouds were also seen over the moors at Oxenhope near Bradford Photograph by Brian Middleton |
Lenticular clouds form when a tall geographic feature, such as the the
top of a mountain, interrupts a strong wind coming up the side. The
interruption in airflow creates a wind wave pattern in the atmosphere on
the downwind side of the mountain. At the crests of these waves,
moisture in the air condenses and forms a cloud, but as the air moves
down into the trough of the wave the water evaporates again, leaving
behind clouds in a characteristic lenticular shape.
0 comments:
Post a Comment