7 Amazing Facts About Ice and Snow That are So Cool You’ll Need a Coat

These days we tend to overlook the sheer magnificence of ice and snow. Thanks to modern technology, these chilling yet fascinating elements of nature are full of surprises.

Don’t believe us? Snuggle up in your favorite jacket and immerse yourself in these 7 facts about ice and snow. You just might learn a thing or two.

7 Facts About Ice and Snow You Probably Didn’t Know

From ice caps and bridges to snow cones and reusable ice packs like these, we’ve somehow found a way to harness and tame two of nature’s coldest forces. However, our ability to create these frigid elements has stolen some of our marvel toward it.

The truth is that there’s a lot about ice and snow that deserves respect. Here are 7 facts to help put them into perspective.

1. Before Technology, Ice Harvesting was a Real Job

Disney’s comic relief character from Frozen, Kristoff, isn’t the only person who carved a life out of harvesting ice. In the early 1800’s this job was an actual trade in which many people made their livelihood.

2. Earth Has Experienced More Than One Ice Age

If you think the Ice Age was a one-time gig, think again! Earth has experienced multiple ice ages throughout history. In fact, some scientists believe there was a point where the whole Earth experienced this phase at once.

There is a good chance an Ice Age will happen again, too. The Earth fluctuates through phases of warmth and cold. We’re currently in the former, but in a few centuries humanity may see a much more chilling future as Mother Nature cools things down.

3. Water is Denser than Ice

We often assume ice is denser than water. However, density isn’t the same as hardness.

Think about the last time you had a drink with ice. Notice how it floats to the top instead of sinking to the bottom of your glass.

This is because water has a higher density level than ice. Water’s mass increases approximately 9% as it freezes, spreading the molecules apart.

4. There are Many Types of Ice

Ice has many forms. Sixteen, to be exact. The different types are based on its crystalline structure, or in some cases its lack thereof.

Amorphous ice, which is typically found in space, is actually classified as a mineral and has 3 different forms within its category.

5. Snowflakes Can Grow as Large as Dinner Plates

Snow doesn’t always come in the small, dainty flakes you see in movies and on television. Although rare, there have been recorded instances of snowflakes the size of dinner plates.

6. Snow Isn’t Actually White

Snow isn’t white. At least, not the way we think.

It’s actually translucent. This is why it appears white as its falling or in relatively thin layers.

However, deep snow often takes on different hues including blue, red, and pink.

7. Some Snowflake Can Be Identical

Despite the lie we’ve been told growing up, not every snowflake is unique. Although there are numerous forms of snowflakes, identical ones are possible.

In 1998, a scientist identified an identical pair at the National Center of Atmospheric Research, also called NCAR.

Looking for More Bone-Chilling Facts?

If these facts about ice and snow weren’t enough to satiate your appetite, don’t worry. We have tons of weird facts and articles for your eyes to feast upon.

Explore our Weird News section for incredible, real-life stories you won’t be able to resist.

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