Consider the following characteristics of a cloud type: 1. They are born through convection. 2. Only cloud type that can produce hail, thunder and lightning. 3. They are large cauliflower-shaped towers, often 'anvil tops'. Identify the type of cloud on the basis of the given characteristics.

The characteristics described—convective origin, production of hail, thunder, and lightning, and a cauliflower-shaped tower with an 'anvil top'—uniquely identify the cumulonimbus cloud. These clouds are born through intense convection on moist, hot days [3]. They are the only cloud type capable of producing the full spectrum of thunderstorm phenomena, including lightning, thunder, and hail [5]. Structurally, they exhibit extensive vertical development, often reaching the level of stratospheric stability where they spread out to form a characteristic flat, anvil-shaped top [7]. While other clouds like cumulus congestus may appear cauliflower-shaped, they lack the anvil top and the ability to produce lightning [5]. Cumulonimbus clouds are often referred to as 'the King of Clouds' due to their massive dimensions and the severe weather they generate [5].

Sources

1. [3] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 9: Atmospheric Circulation and Weather Systems > Thunderstorms and Tornadoes > p. 84
2. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 25: Thunderstorm > Stage 2: Mature stage > p. 343
3. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 4: Climate of India > THUNDERSTORMS > p. 29
4. [4] Certificate Physical and Human Geography , GC Leong (Oxford University press 3rd ed.) > Chapter 14: Climate > Lightning and Thunder > p. 138
5. [7] https://www.bom.gov.au/resources/learn-and-explore/severe-weather-knowledge-centre/thunderstorms