Snowflakes and Water Molecules

Front

What is a snowflake?

Back

A snowflake is a cluster of ice crystals that forms when water vapor freezes in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the solute in a solution?

Back

The solute is the substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution. In our example, the solute is borax.

Front

What are the individual ice crystals that make up a snowflake called?

Back

They are called facets.

Front

Why do snowflakes appear white?

Back

Snowflakes appear white because light is reflected off their surface.

Front

What conditions lead to the formation of intricate snowflakes?

Back

Intricate snowflakes form when the air is cold and the humidity is high.

Front

What is the role of water vapor in snowflake formation?

Back

Water vapor is the gaseous form of water that, when cooled, condenses and freezes to form ice crystals.

Front

How does temperature affect snowflake formation?

Back

Lower temperatures allow water vapor to freeze more easily, leading to the formation of snowflakes.

Front

What is the process of sublimation in relation to snowflakes?

Back

Sublimation is the process where ice changes directly into water vapor without becoming liquid, which can contribute to snowflake formation.

Front

What is the significance of humidity in snowflake formation?

Back

High humidity provides more water vapor, which is necessary for the growth of snowflakes.

Front

What is the structure of a snowflake?

Back

A snowflake typically has a hexagonal structure due to the arrangement of water molecules.