What describes a funnel cloud?

A funnel cloud is specifically characterized as a rotating cloud formation that does not have contact with the ground. This feature distinguishes it from tornadoes, which are funnel-shaped clouds that do reach the Earth's surface. Funnel clouds typically form in severe thunderstorms and are often the precursor to tornadoes, indicating active and violent weather. They can exhibit a funnel-like shape, spiraling downwards, and are an important entity to recognize in meteorology due to their potential to develop into tornadoes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the nature of a funnel cloud. For example, describing it as a stable weather formation overlooks the dynamic and often violent nature of the conditions under which funnel clouds develop. Also, while funnel clouds may sometimes appear similar to cumulus clouds, they are distinct phenomena and do not fit into the category of cumulus cloud types. Lastly, attributing the term to a low-pressure area that brings rain misconstrues its specific characteristics, as funnel clouds are not defined as a weather system but rather as a specific cloud formation associated with severe storms.