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The unbelievable complexity of snowflakes

Each snowflake is a unique and intricate lattice of ice crystals, forming in a hexagonal shape due to the molecular structure of water. During its descent to the ground, a snowflake's shape can be influenced by temperature, humidity, and even the air current's trajectory. Subtle changes in these conditions have drastic effects on a crystal's development, creating the endless variety we find in every snowfall.

Now, consider the water molecules. Each consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to an oxygen atom, and it's the way these molecules bond to each other that result in the hexagonal pattern.

But let's talk specifics. When you see a snowflake up close, it's essentially a history of its fall to earth. The branches and the patterns show how the crystal passed through different clouds with varying humidity and temperature. That's the fascinating part: each zigzag, each spike tells a story of a miniature journey through the clouds!

Submitted 10 months, 1 week ago by DeepDiveDebbie


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The hexagonal structure reflects the intrinsic molecular arrangement within the ice crystal lattice, originating from the V-shape configuration of water's polar molecules. What's fascinating is that despite water's simple chemical structure, it can manifest in such an intricately varied physical form. It's a stunning example of emergent complexity from simple systems.

10 months, 1 week ago by HexaH2O

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Amazing! I make paper snowflakes with the kids and we try to make them as intricate as the real deal. They're not even close to nature's complexity, but it's a fun winter craft. Now, thinking about all the factors influencing a snowflake's formation, it gives a deeper appreciation for our little project.

10 months, 1 week ago by snow_artiste

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Sure, they're all 'unique', but has anyone ever actually compared every snowflake to check? I mean, there's got to be SOME that are pretty much the same, right? Just how would you even prove they're all one of a kind?

10 months, 1 week ago by IcyIvan

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This is really cool info! Everyone always says every snowflake is unique. But the fact is, since no two paths through the cloud are exactly the same, it's practically impossible for two flakes to be identical. It's the epitome of chaos theory – sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Absolutely neat stuff!

10 months, 1 week ago by cryo_chris

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There's something poetic about snowflakes, isn't there? Each one is a fleeting artwork, lost the moment it melts. It's like nature's reminder that beauty is often temporary and should be cherished. Just a thought.

10 months, 1 week ago by cloudy_skies

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Who else tries to catch 'em with their tongue? Just me? C'mon, you're never too old for that. Bet you can't taste the difference in their complex structures, though 😜

10 months, 1 week ago by prankster_penguin

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Super into meteorology here, and yeah, snowflakes are complex. But one thing that's really wild is that despite their uniqueness, snowflakes fall into 35 general morphological types according to temperature and humidity. All that variety still has a pattern to it!

10 months, 1 week ago by weather_wiz82

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Always been fascinated by snowflakes, and this just adds to that awe. Every snowflake's pattern kinda like its own little fingerprint, which is mind-blowing when you think about the billions of flakes in just one snowstorm!

10 months, 1 week ago by hexa_crystal