Lake Ice and 
Snow Science 
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SNOW: Snowflake Formation

The hexagonal (6-sided) structure of snowflakes reflects the molecular structure of water. Solid water forms when the molecules bond in a hexagonal lattice. Small and simple snow crystals (grains) grow slowly, with low temperatures and low humidity. Large and more complex snow crystals (flakes) form quickly with higher temperatures and higher humidity.

FORMATION OF SNOWFLAKES
Water Vapor + Ice Nuclei + Cloud Droplets + Temperature <4°C
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  Nucleation of ice grains  
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  Ice crystal growth  
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Accretion
(Frozen water droplets) 		Snowflakes Aggregation
(Mixed types adhere)


CONDITIONS LEADING TO VARIOUS SNOWFLAKE SHAPES

Snowflake formation chart
An alternate snow formation scheme Snow definitions  

QUESTION: What general snowflake shape forms at (a) higher humidity; (b) lower humidity?

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