Ripening of snow
Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-008581
The process by which a snowpack undergoes changes in its physical properties, primarily due to repeated melting and refreezing cycles. This leads to an increase in the size and density of snow grains, a reduction in porosity, and a decrease in the snow's ability to absorb liquid water. A ripe snowpack is isothermal at 0°C and contains its maximum possible liquid water content, making it susceptible to rapid melt and runoff.
| Identifier | MLC-T-MET-008581 |
|---|---|
| Field | Meteorology and atmospheric science |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-MET-008581",
"term": "Ripening of snow",
"field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
"definition": "The process by which a snowpack undergoes changes in its physical properties, primarily due to repeated melting and refreezing cycles. This leads to an increase in the size and density of snow grains, a reduction in porosity, and a decrease in the snow's ability to absorb liquid water. A ripe snowpack is isothermal at 0°C and contains its maximum possible liquid water content, making it susceptible to rapid melt and runoff.",
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/ripening-of-snow/"
}
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