What is a Cloud chamber?

About Cloud chamber: 

• A cloud chamber is a scientific apparatus that mimics the conditions required for cloud formation.
• It resembles a closed cylindrical or tubular drum, inside which water vapour, aerosols, etc. are injected.
• Under the desired humidity and temperature inside this chamber, a cloud can develop.
• India is building a cloud chamber with convection properties, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds. Globally, there are only a handful of convective cloud chambers.
• Objective: The objective of establishing a convective cloud chamber is to gain a better understanding of cloud physics under conditions commonly affecting Indian weather systems. Thereafter, this knowledge can be used for strategic planning of weather modification.
• The Pune facility will allow scientists to study the seed particles that form cloud droplets or ice particles in a sustained manner.
  • Cloud physics basically involves the study of cloud behaviour during normal and extreme conditions; intra-particle interactions inside a cloud; the formation of rain droplets and ice particles; the influence of moisture added into the atmosphere due to cyclones or low pressure systems; and interactions between different cloud layers, among others.
• Significance: Scientists will have the flexibility to tailor physical and atmospheric parameters to suit environmental requirements that influence the Indian weather and climate.

Q1: What is Convection?

Convection is a way for heat to move, also referred to as a heat transfer mechanism. This transfer of heat happens when a fluid such as air or water is in motion. Convection is driven by temperature differences across that fluid.

News: Why India is building a cloud chamber as part of Mission Mausam