Water Smart: Water in the Air - Snow

Snow forms from tiny ice crystals in clouds, growing until they fall to the ground. It is common in polar regions and on tall mountains due to cold temperatures. Snow provides freshwater when it melts and acts as a protective blanket for plants and animals. People enjoy playing in snow, but it also requires effort to clear from roads. In some cities, significant snowfall occurs, while others never experience it.

What causes snow to fall from the clouds?

• The wind blows them down

• The clouds become too warm

• The crystals grow heavy enough to fall

• The crystals become light enough to float

Why is snow important for certain plants and animals?

• It provides them with food

• It keeps them warm by acting as a blanket

• It helps them to migrate

• It gives them a place to hide

What is one recreational benefit of snow?

• It helps plants grow faster

• It allows people to stay indoors

• It makes travel easier

• It provides a reason to exercise outdoors

What is a challenge associated with snow accumulation?

• It makes roads less slippery

• It makes the air warmer

• It prevents water from reaching rivers

• It requires a lot of energy and money to clear

How does snowmelt contribute to water bodies?

• It stays on the ground

• It freezes again before reaching them

• It flows into rivers and lakes

• It evaporates before reaching them