Definition: A cover of minute ice crystals on objects that are exposed to the air. Frost is formed by the same process as dew, except that the temperature of the frosted object is below freezing.
Alright class, settle down, let’s take a look!
Today we're tackling “frost,” and it’s a lovely little science lesson. The dictionary gives us a good start, don’t you think? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense.
It says frost is "a cover of minute ice crystals… on objects exposed to the air."
Think about it like this: when the air gets chilly,
really
chilly, below freezing – that's important! – it holds tiny bits of water vapor. These little droplets cling to things outside – grass, windows, leaves - and freeze into these incredibly small ice crystals.
It’s similar to dew, you see? Dew forms when the air is cool enough for
water
droplets to form, but the surface stays above freezing. Frost is the same idea, just with
ice
instead of water!
So, frost is basically nature's sparkly coating – a beautiful, icy treat that appears on things left out in the cold.
Do you have any questions about this frosty phenomenon? Would you like me to draw a little picture to help us visualize it?