ELI5: Why Do Clouds Float at Such Varying Heights?

Clouds form when water vapor cools and condenses into visible droplets or ice crystals. The reason they appear at different heights is due to the varying temperature and moisture profiles of the atmosphere. Different cloud types require specific conditions (temperature, humidity, atmospheric stability) to form. For instance, low-lying cumulus clouds form where warm, moist air cools to its dew point, while high-altitude cirrus clouds are made of ice crystals in much colder upper layers. This is a common observation with a fascinating scientific explanation.