Jäädytymisnukkeina

Jäädytymisnukkeina is a Finnish term that translates to "frozen dolls" or "ice dolls." It refers to a specific type of ice formation that occurs in very cold conditions, typically on plants, branches, or even man-made objects. These formations are created when supercooled water droplets in the air freeze instantly upon contact with a surface.

The process is similar to the formation of rime ice, but the term jäädytymisnukkeina emphasizes the resulting delicate, often doll-like or figurine-like structures. These structures can vary in size and complexity, depending on the environmental conditions such as wind speed, humidity, and temperature. Tiny ice crystals accrete on the surface, building up intricate layers that can mimic the appearance of small sculptures.

Jäädytymisnukkeina are a beautiful, yet ephemeral, natural phenomenon. They are most commonly observed in forests and other environments exposed to freezing fog or mist. While visually striking, they can also have practical implications, potentially adding weight to branches and causing them to break, or encasing small objects. The formations melt quickly once temperatures rise above freezing.