The Science Behind Floating Clouds

Clouds appear to float in the sky due to an illusion created by the slow descent of water droplets and the counteracting force of updrafts of rising air. These droplets form around a cloud condensation nucleus and fall at a leisurely pace due to their light weight. The updrafts keep the droplets suspended, giving the illusion of floating. Cloud formation requires warm, moist air that rises and condenses into a cloud as it cools. Despite their appearance, clouds can weigh a significant amount, but their water content varies depending on their size.