What Causes Snowflakes to Have Six Sides?

Discover why snowflakes uniquely form with six sides based on water's molecular structure.

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Snowflakes have 6 sides due to the molecular structure of water. When water molecules freeze, they form a crystal lattice shaped in a hexagonal pattern. This geometric arrangement repeats, leading to the characteristic six-sided symmetry of snowflakes. The temperature and humidity during formation also affect their unique, intricate designs.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why are snowflakes unique? Snowflakes are unique due to the varying temperature and humidity conditions during their formation which lead to intricate designs.
  2. What is the molecular structure of water? The molecular structure of water consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom, which influences ice crystal formation.
  3. Do all snowflakes have six sides? Yes, all snowflakes have a hexagonal shape due to how water molecules arrange themselves as they freeze.

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