Why do some cloud formations look bright white while heavy storm clouds turn dark gray?

Question

When the sky is clear, clouds look like fluffy white cotton balls. Why do they transform into an intimidating, deep dark sheet right before a major storm hits?

AstroScience · Answer

White clouds are thin, allowing sunlight to scatter completely through their water droplets. Storm clouds grow miles thick, absorbing and blocking solar rays from reaching the underside base.

Why do some cloud formations look bright white while heavy storm clouds turn dark gray?

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