Step 1: Analyze Cumulus (A)
'Cumulus' comes from the Latin for 'heap' or 'pile'. These clouds have a puffy, cotton-like appearance with flat bases.
Thus, A matches with (III).
Step 2: Analyze Nimbus (B)
'Nimbus' is Latin for 'rain cloud'. When this prefix or suffix is used (e.g., Nimbostratus, Cumulonimbus), it indicates that the cloud is producing precipitation.
Thus, B matches with (I).
Step 3: Analyze Cirrus (C)
'Cirrus' is Latin for a 'curl of hair'. These are high-altitude clouds that are thin, wispy, and composed entirely of ice crystals.
Thus, C matches with (IV).
Step 4: Analyze Stratus (D)
'Stratus' comes from the Latin for 'layer' or 'sheet'. These clouds are horizontal and layered (stratified).
Thus, D matches with (II).
Conclusion: The correct matching is A-III, B-I, C-IV, D-II.