Coloured Snow Liz Wilkey

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Snow is typically thought of as white, but it can actually come in a variety of colours, including pink, red, green, and even blue. Coloured snow is a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon that occurs when certain types of algae or bacteria grow on the snow.

What Causes Coloured Snow

The most common cause of coloured snow is the presence of algae. Algae are simple plants that can grow in a variety of environments, including snow. When algae grow on snow, they produce pigments that can colour the snow. The most common type of algae that causes coloured snow is called Chlamydomonas nivalis. This algae produces a reddish pigment that can turn snow pink or red.

Other types of algae that can cause coloured snow include:

Coloured Snow

by Liz Wilkey

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	95 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	94 pages
Reading age	:	10 - 12 years
Grade level	:	5 - 6
Item Weight	:	6.9 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.24 x 9 inches
Hardcover	:	120 pages

FREE

• Chloromonas nivalis: This algae produces a green pigment that can turn snow green.

• Ancylonema nordenskioldii: This algae produces a blue pigment that can turn snow blue.

In addition to algae, bacteria can also cause coloured snow. One type of bacteria that can cause coloured snow is called Serratia marcescens. This bacteria produces a red pigment that can turn snow pink or red.

Where Coloured Snow Is Found

Coloured snow can be found in all parts of the world, but it is most common in polar regions. This is because the cold temperatures in polar regions provide an ideal environment for algae and bacteria to grow.

The Effects of Coloured Snow

Coloured snow can have a variety of effects on the environment. For example, coloured snow can affect the amount of sunlight that is reflected back into space. This can have an impact on the climate. Additionally, coloured snow can provide nutrients to the soil and can help to fertilize plants.

Coloured Snow in Culture

Coloured snow has been featured in folklore and literature for centuries. In some cultures, coloured snow is seen as a sign of good luck. In other cultures, it is seen as a sign of bad luck.

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Coloured snow is a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon that can be found in all parts of the world. Coloured snow is caused by the presence of algae or bacteria that grow on the snow. These organisms produce pigments that can colour the snow a variety of colours, including pink, red, green, and blue. Coloured snow can have a variety of effects on the environment, and it has been featured in folklore and literature for centuries.

Additional Resources

• National Snow and Ice Data Center
• Coloured Snow: A Guide to the Phenomenon
• Coloured Snow: A Beautiful and Rare Sight

Coloured Snow

by Liz Wilkey

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	95 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	94 pages
Reading age	:	10 - 12 years
Grade level	:	5 - 6
Item Weight	:	6.9 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.24 x 9 inches
Hardcover	:	120 pages

FREE