When a fast moving cold air mass meets and takes over a slower moving warm air mass a cold front happens. Cold air is heavier and more dense than warm air so when it moves in it moves under the warm air.
When a cold air mass meets a warm air mass that is not moving, it creates a stationary front, leading to cloud formation and potential prolonged precipitation. The warm air rises gently over the cold air, resulting in steady weather rather than sudden storms. Stationary fronts often cause cloudy conditions and extended periods of rain.
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