The Science of Snow

Multiple Choice

At what temperature is it cold enough to snow?

• 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit)
• 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit)
• 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit)
• -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit)

Multiple Choice

What force allows for snow to fall from the clouds?

• Pressure
• Temperature
• Gravity
• Wind

Open Ended

Look at the calendar on the wall next to Mr. Patrick's desk. Predict our first snow day in January. If you can predict the correct date, you win a prize. If you don't think there will be a snow day in January, write none.

Multiple Choice

How much of the Earth's land area is covered by snow for some part of the year?

• 1/10

• 1/2

• 4/5

• 1/3

Multiple Choice

What's the snowiest spot in the United States?

• Vail, Colorado
• Aspen, Colorado
• Mount Rainier, Washington

• Lake Tahoe, California

Multiple Choice

A major snowstorm that lasts for at least 3 hours with snows of at least 35 mph is known as a _____________

• rainstorm
• hailstorm
• snowstorm
• blizzard

Multiple Choice

Why can it seem quieter outside after it snows?

• It seems quieter outside after it snows because snow absorbs sound and reduces noise levels.
• The snow creates a barrier that blocks sound waves.
• Cold temperatures make sound travel faster, increasing noise.
• The absence of people outside leads to a quieter environment.

A blizzard is a major snowstorm

with high winds–at least 35 mph. It lasts

for at least three hours.

Types of Snowy Weather

Source: University Corporation for Atmospheric Research