Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Nature Walk: Winter Frost

Posted on January 13, 2014 at 10:00 AM by Kerri Sorrell

Everyone in cold climates has likely seen frost patterns on a window after a very cold night.  It can take many different forms or shapes from lines to flowing flower-like designs.  Formation occurs due to the difference in very cold air outside and moist humid air inside.  Imperfections in the glass or on its surface such as dust, dirt, or scratches determine the form of the crystals.  Higher humidity will also affect the thickness of the ice.

Everyone in cold climates has likely seen frost patterns on a window after a very cold night. It can take many different forms or shapes from lines to flowing flower-like designs. Formation occurs due to the difference in very cold air outside and moist humid air inside. Imperfections in the glass or on its surface such as dust, dirt, or scratches determine the form of the crystals. Higher humidity will also affect the thickness of the ice.

Have you found any interesting frost formations on your windows in this winter weather?

If you are interested in purchasing a print of this photo or requesting information on possible use of any of our “Nature Walk” photographs, please contact Carl Kurtz at cpkurtz@netins.net. View our other Nature Walk posts!

Kerri

Categories: Blog Posts

Tagged As: Nature walk

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