A size factor of 100x exists between the two types of liquid with the raindrop being the larger. Although the total air resistance is less on the droplet , it has less area being impeded by air molecules. The weight of the droplet is also small so that slight upward air currents can easily suspend the droplet and allow it to evaporate as it falls slowly through the drier atmosphere below. Relate the concept of acceleration due to gravity to the terminal velocity of the raindrops. Describe how the process of collision and coalescence produces precipitation.
Warm clouds form above the freezing point of water.
Precipitation is formed by collisions. Larger droplets fall faster than smaller droplets due to a greater terminal velocity. It is the larger droplet falling through the smaller ones that grows by coalescing. Coalescence is enhanced when colliding drops have opposite electric charge. Size is also enhanced by the time a falling drop spends in a cloud.