What is the key distinction between rain and drizzle in terms of drop size?

The distinction between rain and drizzle is primarily based on the size of the water droplets. Rain is characterized by larger droplets, generally having a diameter greater than 0.5 millimeters. These larger drops result in a more substantial and intense precipitation event, typically falling in heavier amounts. In contrast, drizzle features much smaller droplets, usually less than 0.5 millimeters in diameter. This results in a lighter, more misty type of precipitation that may not accumulate significantly on surfaces.

Understanding this difference is essential for accurate weather reporting and forecasting, as it influences aviation operations significantly. For instance, rain can lead to lower visibility and affect aircraft performance more than drizzle might. Thus, recognizing the size of the drops is critical for categorizing the type of precipitation correctly and predicting its impact on weather conditions.