How You Can Study Snowflakes
When was the last time you looked closely at a snowflake? This Science Friday video makes me grab a magnifying glass and go on a snowflake safari. Do you want to go with?
For better visibility, use something dark in color to catch the snowflakes, such as a sheet of heavy black paper . Make sure the surface is cool so that the snowflakes do not melt when touched. If you like fantasy: Martha Stewart collects her snowflakes on pre-chilled black velvet .
Or, if you have slides on hand (and who doesn’t?), Try this method to “preserve” them: Spray the slides with hairspray, trap snowflakes on them, and keep the slides cool while the hairspray will not freeze. Then you can bring the slides indoors, and even if the snowflakes melt, you have already retained their shape. (Feel free to adapt this idea to your chosen smooth surface.)
If you don’t see perfect six-pointed snowflakes, don’t worry. Some snowflakes form irregular crystals that appear small. But there are also those that have an unusual shape, such as spikes and wheels. The shapes you see will depend on the weather conditions in your area that day. If you are not into today’s snowflakes, snowflake connoisseur, try again another day and compare.