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Lenticular cloud facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Saucer cloud over Campbell Mesa, AZ
Lenticular cloud over Campbell Mesa, Flagstaff, Arizona.

A lenticular cloud (Altocumulus lenticularis) is a type of cloud that forms at high altitudes. They are shaped like discs, and remain roughly in the same position. Because of the way they are shaped, they have been offered as an explanation for some UFO sightings. Lenticular clouds are formed when the wind forces the air up a mountain ridge to where the air is cooler and water vapor condenses.

Images for kids

  • Pressure ridges Scott Base lrg

    Lenticular cloud over the Antarctic ice near Scott Base.

  • Mayon Volcano with cloudy hat

    A lenticular cloud covers the summit crater of Mayon Volcano, Philippines.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Nube lenticular para niños

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Lenticular cloud Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.