Frost on Ice

Does lake ice have the ability to transport water vapor from the bottom of the ice layer to the surface? Newly formed ice will grow large hoar crystals (larger than adjacent surfaces) in a short time. I’m thinking that these crystals need more vapor than that supplied by the atmosphere.
- George McClelland (age 54)
Wilson, WY 83014

I strongly doubt that the transport of water through the ice an compete with the transport in from the vapor. The rate of growth of crystals is very sensitive to details of the surface. I suspect that the best crystal growth spots on the newly formed ice are lost as the ice ages.

Mike W.

(published on 10/22/2007)