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. Cirrus	1. Storm clouds
B. Cumulus	2. High-fog "Low Ceiling"
C. Nimbostratus	3. Fair-weather clouds
D. Stratus	4. Entirely of ice particles

Codes:

A) (A) - (2), (B) - (1), (C) - (3), (D) - (4)
B) (A) - (2), (B) - (3), (C) - (1), (D) - (4)
C) (A) - (4), (B) - (3), (C) - (1), (D) - (2)
D) (A) - (4), (B) - (1), (C) - (3), (D) - (2)

The classification of clouds is based on their height and appearance. Cirrus clouds (A) are high-altitude clouds (8,000-12,000m) composed entirely of ice particles, appearing thin and feathery. Cumulus clouds (B) are characterized by vertical development and flat bases; when they show little vertical growth, they are known as 'fair-weather' clouds [1]. Nimbostratus clouds (C) are thick, dark, low-to-middle level layers that act as storm clouds, bringing continuous rain or snow [3]. Stratus clouds (D) are uniform, gray, sheet-like clouds that often cover the sky like a blanket; they are associated with 'low ceilings' and can sit at ground level as fog [2]. Therefore, the correct matching is A-4, B-3, C-1, and D-2, which corresponds to option 3.

Sources

1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 24: Hydrological Cycle (Water Cycle) > Cirrus Clouds > p. 333
2. [2] https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC%2000-6A%20Chap%207-9.pdf
3. [3] https://www.weather.gov/media/lmk/soo/cloudchart.pdf