Nature’s Sculptures: Sunday’s snow to debut 'Dendrite' masterpieces
The true masterpiece emerges in the "sweet spot" between 3 and 10 degrees known as the dendrite.
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From needles to dendrites, the winter storm promises a gallery of unique snowflakes for snow photographers.
Within a winter cloud, a single speck of dust acts as the seed for a geometric miracle. As water vapor freezes onto this particle, the surrounding temperature becomes a sculptor, molding the shape of a snowflake. In freezing temperatures from 25 to 32 degrees, the flake begins as thin plates, which are simple, solid hexagonal discs.
As the temperature drops between 21 and 25 degrees, the shape becomes a long and thin needle. When the temperature drops further into the 14 to 21 degree range, these needles thicken into hollow columns, tiny six-sided tube with air flowing in the middle.
The prettiest ones happen under 14 degrees. The first between 10 and 14 degrees where the flake broadens into stellar plates. This is where flat, six-armed stars begin to form.
The true masterpiece emerges in the "sweet spot" between 3 and 10 degrees known as the dendrite. These are the most famous depiction of the snowflake, named for their tree-like branching. Dendrites are the most breathtaking of all shapes, featuring sprawling tree or fern-like arms that sprout even smaller branches in a display of infinite complexity. No two dendrites are alike. Every single one is different.
To capture their beauty with a camera, you will have to look carefully and have the right camera. If possible, use a dark surface to catch them so they stand out. Your camera can be a cellphone camera but be sure to use macro mode or zoom in close to get the best detail. Several types of snowflakes are expected this Sunday as temperatures range from the single digits to the 20s. The best chance to see the dendrites will be early in the morning as the sun rises.
