Spontaneous nucleation

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-009158",
  "term": "Spontaneous nucleation",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "The process by which a new phase, such as ice crystals or cloud droplets, forms in a supersaturated or supercooled environment without the presence of pre-existing nuclei. This occurs when random molecular collisions create a cluster of molecules large enough to be stable and grow. In the atmosphere, homogeneous nucleation of ice typically requires temperatures below approximately -40 degrees Celsius.",
  "see_also": [
    "nucleation"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/spontaneous-nucleation/"
}