Have you seen some snow this winter?

 

Snow isn't actually white - each snowflake is made of clear ice, but the way light reflects off the crystals' many surfaces makes it appear white to our eyes.

Temperature significantly affects snowflake formation. The most intricate and classic six-sided snowflakes form around 5°F (-15°C). Warmer temperatures tend to create simpler shapes, while colder conditions can produce hollow columns or needles.

Despite the saying "no two snowflakes are alike," scientists have actually observed identical snowflakes under very controlled laboratory conditions. However, in nature, the chances of finding two identical snowflakes are virtually impossible due to the countless variations in temperature, humidity, and other factors as they form.

Snow is an excellent insulator. Fresh snow is about 90-95% trapped air, which helps keep animals and plants warm under what's called the "subnivean zone." This is why some animals burrow into the snow during winter storms.

The world's largest snowflake was reportedly seen in Fort Keogh, Montana in 1887. It was described as 15 inches wide and 8 inches thick, though this claim is difficult to verify scientifically.



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