Snow Science: Winter’s Frozen Crystals

It doesn’t feel like winter without a little snow. Have you ever wondered how those little white flakes fall from the sky, or why each one looks different? Let’s dive into the science of snowflakes. You can even learn how to make your own at home!

What is Snow?

Snow is made of tiny ice crystals that form when water vapor in the clouds gets really cold. These crystals stick together to make snowflakes.

Snowflakes are usually six-sided, but sometimes they can have different shapes depending on the temperature and humidity as they fall.

Why are No Two Snowflakes Alike?

A scientist named Wilson Bentley spent years photographing snowflakes back in the 1800s. He discovered that no two snowflakes were exactly the same. Every flake takes a different journey through clouds and wind, which makes it unique from all the others. That’s why every snowflake is special in its own way—just like you!

Next time it snows in Lincoln, look closely at the flakes—you might just see a tiny frozen work of art that’s unlike any other in the world.

Make Your Own Snow at Home!

You don’t need it to be snowing to play with snow. You can make your own “snow” inside with just two things:

• 1 box of baking soda

• Shaving foam

How to Make it:

• Pour the baking soda into a big bowl or container.

• Add shaving foam little by little, mixing as you go, until it looks like real snow—soft and fluffy.

• Squish it with your hands and play!

Now you can build tiny snowmen, make little snow angels, or enjoy a snowy craft indoors!