What can cause the development of a thunderstorm?

Study for the Sheppard Air Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Exam. Use flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and explanations to prepare. Get ready to ace your exam!

The development of a thunderstorm is primarily driven by the presence of moisture and the upward movement of warm air. When warm air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds. As this process continues, it can lead to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, which are characteristic of thunderstorms. The moisture in the atmosphere is essential for cloud formation and subsequent precipitation, thereby directly contributing to the storm's development.

In contrast, temperature inversions and stable atmospheric conditions typically inhibit the vertical movement of air, which is necessary for storm formation. High humidity and calm winds might seem conducive to thunderstorms, but without the rising warm air needed to trigger the storm, they do not effectively initiate the thunderstorm's development. Therefore, the combination of moisture and the rising of warm air is crucial for creating the conditions necessary for thunderstorms.

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