Relationship between reflectivity and cloud top temperatures
Question was: Explain why the cloud-top characteristics that you have observed are related to the high reflectivity values. In your explanation, you might want to comment on the common type of cloud that might exhibit both of these characteristics?
My answer is: In this example, the cloud-top characteristics that are observed are an example of a cumulonimbus cloud. A cumulonimbus cloud is also known as a thunderstorm cloud. Cumulonimbus clouds have a significant vertical extent which is seen on the infrared image. The image displays clouds that are -70 degrees C which indicates that the clouds have a very high altitude. Cumulonimbus clouds produce heavy rain, among other things, which is visible on the reflectivity image (as measured in dBZ).
But what I don't understand is: Does this always hold true? In other words, could there ever be a situation where cloud top temps and reflectivity don't indicate the same thing? Example, could you have high reflectivity and warm cloud temps?
