Hoar Frost: A closer look at snows surface

26 MARCH 2020
Backyard Exploration: Hoar Frost!

Good day to you all! 

If you live around the McCall area I am sure you have noticed the new snow and the magical layer of Hoar frost that formed on the surface. Hoar frost is caused by a temperature gradient (a difference in a measurable variable like temperature) meaning the temperature at the bottom of the snowpack is warmer than the surface temperature. Ideal conditions for hoar frost to occur are when the night sky is clear and the temperature drops below freezing. This creates the temperature gradient! Since SNOW IS WATER the moisture in the snowpack creeps towards the surface due to the basic principle of warm particles rising and cooler particles sinking. As moisture particles reach the surface they are no longer clinging to the snow/water around them and begin to crystallize and spread out. Thus, HOAR FROST IS BORN!!

Thanks for reading about todays outdoor learning experience. Stay tuned for more pictures, fun facts and crafts in the weeks to come. Have a wonderful day!

Please find pictures and a video link from todays Backyard Exploration below!

Youtube link for Hoar frost: https://youtu.be/tcuvf1OLP70