Typical textbooks will explain that temperature change is the driving force behind cloud formation. The base of the cumulus clouds seen above is somewhat flat and this where a temperature change occurs where moisture in the air condenses. However, a new study indicates something different could be the main factor.
A new study posted in the online journal Nature, indicates as rain descends to the earth, this creates a downward draft. Once this downward draft hits the surface of the earth, this cooler air will move laterally. When this horizontal draft hits another horizontal draft, this collision creates an upward draft of warmer, moister air. These upward drafts create new clouds as older clouds dissipate as precipitation occurs. This upward draft seems to be a stronger factor in cloud formation than simply temperature changes.
Furthermore, this periodic pattern of rain events and cloud formation in open skys seems to be in an organized pattern and scientists are referring to this pattern as a new form of "communication" between the clouds.
For more details, visit http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2010/08/13/clouds-communicate-scientists-say/
