Which cloud type is least likely to produce significant precipitation?

High clouds, typically found at altitudes above 20,000 feet, are predominantly composed of ice crystals and are generally seen in conditions where atmospheric moisture is limited. Examples of high clouds include cirrus, cirrostratus, and cirrocumulus. These cloud types often indicate stable atmospheric conditions and typically do not produce significant precipitation due to their thin nature.

In contrast, low clouds, such as stratus or stratocumulus, and middle clouds, like altostratus or altocumulus, can precipitate, although the amount and intensity vary. Clouds of vertical development, such as cumulonimbus, are associated with severe weather and are capable of producing heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, and even severe turbulence.

Thus, high clouds are least likely to contribute to significant precipitation because of their structure and typically dry environment, making them distinct from other cloud types that are more conducive to precipitation.