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Snow Report

December 2009

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Think every flake is the same? Dr. Kenneth G. Libbrecht, chairman of the Caltech physics department and author of The Art of the Snowflake, knows better.

STELLAR DENDRITES

The science: These light, lacy flakes form when the air is around 5 degrees F and humid. The more moisture is in the air, the more intricate the snowflakes.
Best for: Heli-skiing
Why: They form powder so soft and fluffy you can sink up to your waist.

NEEDLES AND PLATES

The science: These two very different types of crystals fall at 23° and 28°F, respectively, when snow is wet and sticky.
Best for: Snowball fights, snowman-making
Why: They form denser snow that's easier to pack.

PUFF BALLS

The science: Many people mistake these for giant snowflakes, but they're actually large globs of semi-wet crystals that accumulate in the air and fall together.
Best for: Catching on your tongue
Why: These slower-falling, bigger chunks are easy to catch.

GRAUPEL

The science: When snowflakes fall through clouds, sometimes they hit the supercooled water droplets in them. Droplets then freeze to the snow crystals, creating flakes that look like they have been dipped in sand.
Best for: Sledding
Why: It's very slick, so you will fly on this stuff.

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