Each convective cell progresses through a 3-stage cycle where new cells may form and other cells disperse. In the cumulus stage, an updraft of air builds a cumulus cloud until small droplets are formed which are carried upward. The mature stage is next, where cells reach a height of 25,000 feet or more. The raindrops increase until they are too heavy to be carried upward and fall to the ground, sometimes in a downpour or even as hail. As the raindrops fall, a downdraft occurs. The mixture of updrafts and downdrafts is what causes turbulence while flying. In the dissipating stage, the updraft begins to disperse. At some point, the air needed to maintain the downdraft is reduced, causing the entire structure to dissolve. The last stage results in light rain.

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Curator: Tom.Benson@grc.nasa.gov
Responsible Official: Kathy.Zona@grc.nasa.gov