The science of persistence

[HappyMonday]

Ayup...

Could somebody help me out with a link to or description of a succinct explanation of the science behind the persistence of a contrail?

I'm writing something on the matter, and can't find one.

cheers.

 

[Mick West]

A contrail will persist if the air is ice supersaturated.

or

A contrail will persist if the air temperature is below the frost point.


Exactly how much detail do you need? The science can get quite complicated. I like to try to keep it simple.

 

[Mick West]

Here's a classic explanation of why clouds (and contrails) form:

​

It does not delve into why they persist, but might give you some ideas

 

[HappyMonday]

Cheers Mick,found this too - http://www.airspacemag.com/flight-today/Flight_Lines.html?device=iphone