jäätumine

Jäätumine is an Estonian term that generally refers to the process of freezing or ice formation. It can be applied in various contexts, most commonly in meteorology and hydrology. In meteorology, jäätumine describes the transformation of water into ice. This can occur when atmospheric temperatures drop below the freezing point of water (0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit). This phenomenon is responsible for the formation of frost, ice on surfaces, and the solidification of precipitation like snow and hail.

In hydrology, jäätumine pertains to the freezing of bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and seas. The extent and duration of jäätumine depend on factors like water temperature, salinity, water flow, and ambient air temperature. Ice cover on water bodies can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems, affecting oxygen levels and animal behavior. It also has implications for human activities, influencing transportation, recreation, and infrastructure. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of stagnation or immobility, although this is a less common usage.