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December 15
5 fascinating snowflake facts

Illustration of the number 15 in the center of the picture. Illustrated snow figures all around.
Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V.

Most people know that snowflakes are unique. But did you know that snow is odorless and that snow cannot form without dust in the air? Here are five fun facts about snowflakes.

1. Snowflake world record

The largest snowflake ever measured is said to be 38 centimetres in diameter and was spotted in Montana in 1887. That's according to the Guinness Book of Records.

Illustration of a snowflake. An arrow points to the snowflake. Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V.

2. The air has to be dirty for snow to form

For snow to form, it needs a condensation nucleus around which water molecules can gather and solidify. Dust particles can be such condensation nuclei.

Two dark clouds and a snowflake Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V. | Illustration (Detail): Maryna Stryzhak © Canva.com

3. Snow on Mars is cube-shaped

Snow can also fall at night on Mars at the poles. But because the 'snow' on Mars is mainly made out of CO2, the shape of the snowflakes is cube-shaped. On Earth, snowflakes have six corners because of the structure of water molecules.

An ice cube and a snowflake Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V. | Illustration: Sensvector © Canva.com

4. You can't smell snow

Snow is odorless, but many people think they can smell it. There are several explanations for this. One is that snow prevents odors from rising from the ground. So the air is unusually clear. And we can 'smell' the clean air.

Illustration of a snow person Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V.

5. You can preserve snowflakes

In addition to patience, superglue plays an important role. You can find tutorials on YouTube.

Illustration: Preserved snowflake Illustration: Tobias Schrank © Goethe-Institut e. V.

Competition 4 of 6 has ended!

Unfortunately, the snowflake competition is already over.
Have you already read our article about the snowflake in the 16th door? The next competition starts on 17 December - then you'll have another chance to try your luck!

 

Giveaway

Question: Do you remember the first snowfall you experienced?

This is how it works: Register at "Mein Goethe.de". Answer today's question in a comment and let us know from which country you are commenting. With a little luck, you could win one of the six surprise packages!
We will also be giving away three vouchers for a German Online Training worth €299 each. By entering the competition, you accept the terms and conditions.

We wish you good luck!

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