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
- Why are snowflakes unique? Snowflakes are unique due to the varying temperature and humidity conditions during their formation which lead to intricate designs.
- 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.
- Do all snowflakes have six sides? Yes, all snowflakes have a hexagonal shape due to how water molecules arrange themselves as they freeze.