New video: The Snowflake Mystery

[rjlittlefield]

Here's an interesting video about snowflake formation, an interview with Ken Libbrecht on the Veritasium channel.

I was not aware that the technology had advanced to "snowflakes by design".

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ao2Jfm35XeE

--Rik

[MarkSturtevant]

Way cool! The Veritasium series is always so well done.
I have photographed snowflakes, off and on, but what I have is far from ready for prime time. But it's still a fun challenge.

[Chris S.]

Interesting indeed--thanks for linking to it.

Looking briefly at some of Libbrecht's journal articles, it appears that he has disclosed--at least in broad brush strokes--elements of his "snowflakes by design" apparatus. I find myself wishing for a thorough, nuts-and-bolts, design recipe, but didn't see one. What fun it would be to devise, test, and publish a recipe--then many could play.

My brief dive left me wondering what a "diffusion chamber" is in Libbrecht's approach. Anyone know?

--Chris S.

[zzffnn]

Very interesting!

Chris S, have you asked Professor Ken Libbrecht by email for a "recipe" or exploded design diagram? It wouldn't hurt.

I would guess he would have patented necessary elements, if he wanted that. There is probably not much commercial interest (besides making customized jewelries?); so I don't see why the professor would hide it from citizen scientists / photographers. He likely just does it for research / publication purpose.

[Lou Jost]

What a good video! Seems like a very nice person too.