That's about the size of a dinner plate! This massive snowflake was measured by a rancher named Matt Coleman in Fort Keogh, Montana, on January 28, 1887.
How Snowflakes Form
Snowflakes are formed when water vapor in the air freezes into ice crystals. These ice crystals then join together to form snowflakes. The shape of a snowflake is determined by the temperature and humidity of the air.
The Giant Snowflake
The giant snowflake that fell in Montana was formed under very specific conditions. The air was very cold and humid, which allowed the ice crystals to grow to an unusually large size. The snowflake was also very symmetrical, with six perfectly formed branches.
Other Large Snowflakes
While the 15-inch snowflake is the largest on record, there have been other reports of very large snowflakes. In 1891, a snowflake measuring 12 inches wide was reported in Nebraska. And in 2013, a snowflake measuring 10 inches wide was photographed in Wisconsin.
Conclusion
Snowflakes are beautiful and fascinating natural phenomena. The world's largest snowflake is a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. It is also a reminder that even the smallest things can be amazing.
WORDLIST:
snowflake – снежинка
vapor – пар
join together – соединяются вместе
is determined by – определяется
humidity – влажность
giant – гигантский
humid – влажный
branches – ветви
fascinating – захватывающий
reminder – напоминание
power – сила
QUESTIONS:
What is the largest snowflake ever recorded?
Where and when was the largest snowflake ever recorded?
How are snowflakes formed?
What factors determine the shape of a snowflake?
Describe the conditions under which the giant snowflake in Montana was formed.
Have there been any other reports of very large snowflakes?