What are the stages of a hurricane's life cycle?

The stages of a hurricane's life cycle are accurately described as Formation, Growth, Maturity, and Dissipation. In the context of a hurricane, the formation stage occurs when a tropical disturbance develops into a tropical cyclone, characterized by organized convection and lowering of atmospheric pressure. Growth refers to the intensification of the storm as it gathers energy from warm ocean waters, leading to an increase in wind speed and organization. Maturity is the stage where the hurricane reaches its peak intensity, exhibiting the classic structure with an eye and defined eyewall. Finally, dissipation occurs as the hurricane encounters unfavorably cooler waters or land, leading to weakening and eventual dissipation.

The option that mentions 'Cumulus, Mature, Dissipating' does not represent the correct stages of a hurricane; instead, these terms are associated with cloud types and the life cycle of thunderstorms, not hurricanes. The other options, while having terminology related to life cycles, do not accurately reflect the specific scientific definitions and stages relevant to hurricanes.