Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists :

List I
(Cloud Form)
List II
(Characteristic)
A. Cirrus1. Storm clouds
B. Cumulus2. High fog “Low Ceiling”
C. Nimbostratus3. Fair-weather clouds
D. Stratus4. Entirely of ice particles

Code :

2 1 3 4
2 3 1 4
4 3 1 2
4 1 3 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-2 – 2022
Cirrus clouds are high-level clouds composed entirely of ice crystals. Cumulus clouds are typically puffy and associated with fair weather. Nimbostratus clouds are dark, layered precipitation clouds (“storm clouds” in a general sense of bringing significant precipitation). Stratus clouds form a flat, grey layer and can resemble fog, often causing a “low ceiling”. Matching these characteristics: A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2. This corresponds to option C.
Cloud classification is based on appearance and altitude. Major types include Cirrus (high, wispy, ice), Cumulus (puffy, vertical development), Stratus (low, layered), and Nimbus (rain/precipitation bearing). Combinations exist like cumulonimbus (thunderstorms) and nimbostratus (continuous rain/snow).
High clouds (above 6 km): Cirrus, Cirrocumulus, Cirrostratus. Middle clouds (2-6 km): Altocumulus, Altostratus. Low clouds (below 2 km): Stratus, Stratocumulus, Nimbostratus. Clouds with vertical development: Cumulus, Cumulonimbus.