Science of the Winter Olympic Games - Science of Snow

The video explores the significance of snow in winter sports, particularly during the 2014 Sochi Olympics. It delves into the science of snow formation, highlighting the role of supercooled water and nucleating particles in creating snowflakes. The video also examines the impact of environmental factors like humidity and temperature on snowflake shapes. Additionally, it discusses the challenges faced by Sochi organizers in managing snow supply, including storing snow under insulating blankets.

What was a major concern for the organizers of the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi?

• The number of athletes participating

• The availability of enough snow

• The design of the racing tracks

• The safety of the spectators

What is required for supercooled water droplets to turn into snowflakes?

• Strong winds

• High temperatures

• Direct sunlight

• Contact with nucleating particles

What experiment did Sarah Conrad demonstrate to explain snow formation?

• Boiling water

• Condensing steam

• Melting ice cubes

• Freezing supercooled water

What factors determine the size and shape of snowflakes?

• Time of day and season

• Wind speed and altitude

• Humidity and temperature

• Sunlight and air pressure

What challenge did Sochi organizers face with stored snow?

• It melted and refroze, becoming icy

• It was not enough for the events

• It was too soft for skiing

• It was too heavy to transport