What is a common visual characteristic of cumuliform clouds?

Cumuliform clouds are characterized by their distinct billowing and rounded tops, which resemble cotton or cauliflower in appearance. This shape is the result of the vertical development that occurs when warm, rising air (or thermals) cools as it ascends, leading to the formation of these clouds. The upward movement creates a puffed-up structure, and the rounded tops indicate that the air within is still rising. This is a key visual trait that distinguishes cumuliform clouds from other types of clouds, which might exhibit different shapes and characteristics.

The other options describe features typically associated with different cloud types; for example, flat and smooth surfaces are more indicative of stratiform clouds, while thin and wispy edges characterize cirrus clouds. Layered and sheet-like structures are also typical of stratocumulus or nimbostratus clouds. Understanding these visual characteristics helps in cloud identification and understanding weather patterns.