Which type of cloud is characterized by a patchy appearance and is not typically found close to the ground?

The correct choice is based on the characteristics of clouds, specifically how they appear and where they are typically located in the atmosphere. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy formations that often resemble feathers or hair. They are found at high altitudes generally above 20,000 feet, which is much higher than clouds like cumulus or stratus that might be seen at lower levels near the ground.

Cirrus clouds are also noted for their patchy or streaky appearance, resulting from their formation of ice crystals in the upper levels of the atmosphere. Unlike cumulus clouds, which are fluffy and can appear lower in the atmosphere, or stratus clouds that form in a more uniform layer near the ground, cirrus clouds do not typically occupy the lower altitudes. Therefore, their characteristics align perfectly with the description provided in the question, distinguishing them from the other cloud types.