The Fascinating World of Enormous Snowflakes
The largest individual snow crystal ever observed measured 10 millimeters (0.39 inches) from tip to tip, according to Professor of Physics at Caltech Dr Kenneth Libbrecht. While reports suggest that snowflakes as large as 1 ft 3 in (38 cm) wide and 8 in (20 cm) thick have been seen, these may have been clumps of many snow crystals. Snow crystals are the result of water freezing from vapor to ice, while snowflakes can be any icy lump falling from the sky. Snow crystal enthusiasts can observe and identify different crystalline structures by following tips from Libbrecht, such as wearing something warm with a dark sleeve, using a magnifier, and familiarizing themselves with different types of snowflakes.
