Snowflakes – why don’t you see two of the same kind?

For some, it’s primarily a pattern on a Christmas sweater, while for others it’s an important part of the ecosystem that counteracts climate change. Snowflakes, though inconspicuous, play an important role in science, art and culture. Let’s see if it’s possible to hit on two identical snowflakes, and in addition, red and watermelon-scented.

The mysterious journey of a snowflake – how are snowflakes formed?

The journey of each snowflake, or snowflake, begins in the clouds, where conditions are ideal for its formation. This is where the magic is born. When the temperature drops below freezing, water droplets begin to crystallize, forming ice crystals. This process, although it seems simple, hides an infinite variety. Snowflakes begin their lives as microscopic ice crystals that gradually grow, taking on more and more forms.

The uniqueness of snowflakes lies in their path through the cloud. Depending on conditions such as temperature, humidity and wind speed, each snowflake evolves differently. In cooler conditions, simple, flat hexagons can form, while warmer temperatures favor the formation of more complex, star-shaped forms. The path the snowflakes take through the cloud also affects their shape. Changing atmospheric humidity, collisions with other ice crystals, and even sunlight all go into the unique pattern of each snowflake.

Snowflakes under the magnifying glass of scientists

The basis of the snowflake’s structure is the hexagonal symmetry that results from the molecular structure of water. But what makes snowflakes so diverse is the conditions under which they form. Small differences in temperature and atmospheric humidity, which occur even within a single cloud, lead to the formation of different patterns. Researchers have discovered that even the smallest changes in the environment through which a snowflake passes can affect its final shape. This makes the probability of two identical snowflakes virtually zero. Prof. U. Nakaya of Hokkaido University described 41 different morphological types of snow crystals and divided them into groups.

Ecological and climatic significance of snowflakes

Snowflakes, while often seen mainly as part of the winter landscape and artistic inspiration, also play a key role in ecosystems and the global climate. Their impact on the environment and life on Earth is much more profound than it might seem at first glance. When snow covers the ground, snowflakes act as an insulator, protecting the soil from winter temperatures. This layer prevents the soil from freezing to a greater depth, which is crucial for the survival of many plants and microorganisms. As a result, when spring arrives, the soil warms up faster, which promotes plant growth.

Snow also has a significant impact on water availability in ecosystems. In the mountains, the accumulation of snow in winter and its gradual melting in spring ensure a steady flow of water to rivers and streams, which is essential not only for plant and animal life, but also for humans, who rely on it for agriculture and as a source of drinking water. Snowflakes also play an important role in climate regulation. Snow reflects much of the sun’s radiation back into space, which helps regulate the Earth’s temperature. This phenomenon, known as albedo, is an important element in climate models.

Fluctuations in snowpack thickness due to global warming can lead to changes in albedo, which in turn affects the global climate. Studying snowflakes and their structure can provide valuable information on climate change. Analysis of snow and ice layers, especially in polar areas, allows scientists to reconstruct past and monitor current climate conditions.

Snowflakes in culture and art

Snowflakes, which have fascinated mankind for centuries with their delicacy and uniqueness, have found their place not only in science, but also in culture and art. Their symmetrical, complex patterns and ephemeral nature have become a source of inspiration for many artists, poets and other creators. Nowadays, it is becoming increasingly popular to define people born between 1990 and 2000 of the 20th century. “the snowflake generation.” However, it has pejorative overtones, and implies that young people were raised “under a lampshade” and are not prepared for the challenges of adult life.

Meanwhile, during the holiday season, snowflakes become an integral part of the decorations. Their patterns are used in the design of Christmas cards, Christmas tree ornaments and even in fashion, where they appear on sweaters and winter accessories. This tradition, although it seems modern, has its roots in ancient customs and folklore, where snowflakes symbolized winter magic and the miracle of the birth of new life.

Snowflakes – did you know that?

Each snowflake has a unique pattern, but always maintains hexagonal symmetry. This is a result of how water molecules combine during freezing. This symmetry is one of the most fascinating features of snowflakes and is a challenge for many photographers. The first person to succeed in photographing a single snowflake was Wilson Bentley, known as the “Snow Man.” He accomplished this back in 1885, when he was only 15 years old! Interestingly, he took the photos thanks to a self-built device that was a combination of a microscope and a camera.

His works, featuring unique patterns of snowflakes, opened the world’s eyes to their complexity and beauty. However, you may be surprised not only by the unique shapes of the snowflakes, but also by their size. Although most snowflakes are between 2 and 5 millimeters in diameter, there are some real giants. The record snowflake, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, was observed in 1887. In Fort Keogh, USA. It was an amazing 38 centimeters in diameter!

What about the color of the snow? Does it always have to be white? It turns out not, as proven by the research of Sir John Ross, a Scottish sailor and voyager as far back as 200 years ago. During a trip to the northwest coast of Greenland, he observed snow in pink and maroon hues. After analysis, it turned out that iron in the soil was to blame for everything. It is not only iron that can turn snow red, but also snow-forming algae from the green algae cluster or sand from the Sahara. The algae give the snowflakes a red color and watermelon-like smell. In contrast, the reason for the red snow falling in Bulgaria in March 2008. was the dust from the red Saharan sands that made its way into the upper atmosphere.

In conclusion, snowflakes are a perfect example of how complex and diverse natural beauty can be. Each snowflake is a unique work of art, shaped by specific atmospheric conditions and affecting our ecosystem, but also our culture. So it’s worth pausing for a moment to appreciate that every year(this time even faster than usual) paints our world white, bringing with it joy, peace and a moment of reflection on the wonders that surround us every day.