What type of precipitation consists of liquid drops with a diameter of less than 0.5 mm?

Drizzle is characterized by small liquid droplets that have a diameter of less than 0.5 mm. It typically falls more slowly and is lighter than other forms of rain, contributing to a more persistent and widespread form of precipitation. Drizzle occurs when the atmosphere is stable, and it often forms in overcast conditions, where clouds are not producing more intense precipitation.

In contrast to other forms of precipitation, like hail, which involves larger ice pellets formed in strong thunderstorms, or sleet, which consists of small ice pellets that result when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground, drizzle is distinctly defined by its smaller droplet size and lighter intensity. Snow, while a common form of precipitation, involves frozen water crystals and does not fit the description of liquid drops.