What is the definition of snow (SN)?

The definition of snow (SN) is best described as snow crystals mostly branched in the form of six-pointed stars. This characterizes snow as it forms in the atmosphere. Snowflakes originate from the freezing of water vapor in the clouds, leading to the creation of ice crystals that take on a variety of shapes. When conditions are right, these ice crystals commonly develop branches, forming the intricate structures that are recognized as snowflakes.

Snowflakes predominantly have a six-fold symmetry due to the molecular structure of ice, resulting in the six-pointed star shapes that are commonly associated with snowfall. This unique structure arises from the way water molecules arrange themselves as they freeze.

In contrast, small white pellets describe a different form of precipitation, often associated with sleet or ice pellets, rather than snow. Ice crystals in a cloud denote the beginning of snow formation but do not fully encapsulate the end result seen as snowflakes falling to the ground. Lastly, water droplets frozen in air may describe a different process such as freezing rain, which is not representative of snow. Thus, the definition provided in this context accurately reflects the distinct characteristics of snow.