What three elements are required for the formation of a thunderstorm cell?

The formation of a thunderstorm cell specifically requires the presence of water vapor, unstable air, and lift. Each of these elements plays a critical role in the development of these weather phenomena.

Water vapor is essential because it provides the moisture required for cloud formation and precipitation. When warm air rises, it cools and condenses, releasing latent heat, which further fuels the storm.

Unstable air is crucial because it describes a situation where the atmosphere allows for vertical development. If the air is unstable, it means that a parcel of air will rise when disturbed, facilitating the growth of the thunderstorm as the air continues to rise and swell.

Lift is the mechanism that causes the air to rise. This can come from various sources, such as a weather front, terrain features, or converging winds. Without lift, the air won’t climb, and thus, the storm cannot develop.

The other answer choices refer to atmospheric conditions and dynamics that do not fully encompass the necessary elements for thunderstorm cell formation.