A Winter Conundrum - climbing salt

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The discussion revolves around the unusual phenomenon of snow and salt from boot treads appearing to "climb" out of a storage tray. Factors contributing to this behavior include temperature gradients, air movement that dries the salt, and the hydrophobic or hydrophilic properties of the tray's surface. The crystallization of salt may also create a wicking effect, further influencing its movement. The specifics of the tray's location, such as proximity to heat sources or vents, could play a significant role in this occurrence.
WhatReally
Per photo, snow and salt melted off my boots treads seems to have "climbed" out the the tray where I keep them. I find this absolutely bizarre.
Any thoughts?
boot tray salt escape.JPG
 
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Nice one.

Probably some combination of temperature gradient, air movement drying the salt, tray surface hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity and a wicking effect of the salt that already crystallized. Not that I have a quick and obvious idea about details, but it might be quite non trivial and depend on very particular position of the tray near a heater, vent and so on.
 
Makes sense. Thanks!
 

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