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Ice crystals in snow look different from different directions – now this can be modelled

Photo of anisotropical snow crystals by Anna Kontu, FMI.

Based on measurements carried out at the Finnish Meteorological Institute in Sodankylä, a model has been developed that describes the development of the structures of ice crystals in snow.

For example, the shape of the crystals and the microstructure of snow affect the flow of radiation within the snow. Knowledge of the structure and development of snow crystals during winter helps to model the thermal conductivity of snow more accurately.

More information:

Research Scientist Anna Kontu, Finnish Meteorological Institute, anna.kontu@fmi.fi

Leinss, S., Löwe, H., Proksch, M., Kontu, A.  (2020). Modeling the evolution of the structural anisotropy of snow. The Cryosphere, 14, 51-75. https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-14-51-2020

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