Snow is an integral part of winter in North America. Last evening New York experienced a somewhat unexpected snowfall and the beautiful white snow remained on the ground throughout the next day instead of merely melting away. Although there has not been as much snow this year as other years it is wise to expect more as the month continues. Many people look forward to snow fall and all the activities that can be done in the snow, but few know many facts about snow. Below are a few interesting things about snow:
• In order for it to snow, the tops of clouds must be below 0 degrees Celsius (or 32 degrees Fahrenheit).
• As they fall, snowflakes connect to make bigger snowflakes.
• What little sunlight is absorbed by the snow is absorbed uniformly over the wavelengths of visible light, giving snow its white appearance.
• Ice and snow at the North and South Poles reflect the heat of the Sun back into space.
• Snow is a good insulator that can keep plants insulated from damaging sub-zero air temperatures.
More facts about snow can be found here: http://www.science.ie/science-news/10-science-facts-about-snow.html
Playing during snow days is always fun as long as one remembers to bundle up and keep warm. Staying outdoors in cold temperatures without being properly insulated can make one susceptible to illnesses including the flu, frostbite, and hypothermia. However, as long as one remembers to bring their coat, gloves, scarf, hat, and warm socks then a snow day is a sure way to have fun and make winter memories that will last a long time after the snow has melted.
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