Why do clouds form at different heights in the atmosphere?
The type of cloud that is formed will determine what level the cloud is in the atmosphere. The various cloud types have different characteristics that are dictated by the elements available, including the amount of water vapor, the temperatures at that height, the wind, and the interplay of other air masses. Colder clouds are higher in the atmosphere with warmer ones closer to the surface. Also warmer clouds can hold more water vapor than colder clouds, making it possible for clouds closer to the surface to become thicker and bigger than higher clouds.
