If a cloud is layered and widespread and gives long-lasting light rain, which cloud is most likely?

Correct answer: Nimbostratus

Direct answer: C, nimbostratus. The name and structure provide the clue: ‘stratus’ refers to a layered or sheet-like cloud, while ‘nimbus’ is associated with precipitation. Nimbostratus commonly forms a broad, thick, fairly uniform cloud layer and can produce steady, widespread precipitation for a prolonged period. C is correct because it matches all three clues—layered structure, wide coverage, and long-lasting light or moderate rain. A is wrong because cirrus clouds are high, thin, and icy; they generally do not produce prolonged light rain at the ground. B is wrong because cumulus clouds are rounded or heaped and are more often associated with scattered fair-weather clouds, though some related forms can grow vertically. D is wrong because fog is a cloud at or very near the ground, not the usual name for a widespread elevated rain cloud. Memory cue: ‘nimbus’ means rain and ‘stratus’ means layer, so nimbostratus means a rain-bearing layer cloud.