Plumes are visible, often feathery formations of gas, smoke, or liquid that rise into the air. They can be created by various natural and human-made processes, such as volcanic eruptions, wildfires, or industrial emissions. Plumes can vary in size, shape, and color, depending on their source and the materials involved. In the context of meteorology, plumes can also refer to the rising columns of warm air that can lead to cloud formation. Additionally, in oceanography, plumes may describe underwater currents that carry nutrients or pollutants. Understanding plumes is essential for studying environmental impacts and weather patterns.