Jääkiteen

Jääkiteen is a Finnish term that translates to "ice crystal" in English. It refers to a single, solid crystal of ice formed by the freezing of water. These crystals can take on a vast array of geometric shapes, most commonly hexagonal, due to the molecular structure of water. The specific form of a jääkiteen is heavily influenced by ambient temperature and humidity during its formation. Common shapes include dendrites (star-like formations), needles, columns, and plates.

Jääkiteen are a fundamental component of snow, frost, and hail. In meteorology, the study of these ice crystals is crucial for understanding precipitation patterns and atmospheric phenomena. Their intricate structures are often admired for their beauty, and they have been a subject of scientific investigation and artistic inspiration for centuries. The process of a jääkiteen forming from water vapor in the atmosphere is known as nucleation, followed by growth through deposition. The surface properties and growth mechanisms of jääkiteen are complex and depend on factors like supersaturation and air currents.