Modelling zinc oxide nanoparticle formation could provide new insights into how snowflakes form as well as aiding nanoscale device research, say Chinese scientists.
Snowflakes are formed in the atmosphere via complicated crystallisation and melting processes. What exactly happens is one of the great mysteries of nature but despite unwavering interest, the formation mechanism remains unknown. In addition to being a curiosity, this knowledge could have important scientific and technological relevance by providing insights into crystal growth dynamics and pattern formation during solidification.