Importance of difference between SVP over ice and water?

In summary, the difference in SVP between ice and water is significant in cloud formation and can lead to the growth of ice crystals at the expense of water droplets. It also plays a role in the freezing of water droplets and the vertical distribution of water in the atmosphere.
  • #1
JesseC
251
2
SVP = saturated vapour pressure.

I understand that the SVP over ice is less than that over water for temperatures less than 0C. I'm doing an exam question which asks 'what is the significance of this difference?'. My first guess is that in clouds with both ice and water present, this difference results in growth of ice crystals at the expense of droplets. Not sure if this is the only significance, and whether anyone could point me to some others.
 
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  • #2
Check the Bergeron process. Precipitation will form much easier with the ice crystals growing continuously than miniscule water droplets coalescing via collisions.

Also, -not sure- it may the reason why the moist adiabat is not as as constant as the dry adiabat. If vapor condenses to water the released latent heat is about 2.5 kJ/g, but when it sublimates to ice crystals it's 2.833 kJ/g, adding another variable.

http://www.usatoday.com/weather/wlatent.htm
 
  • #3


Hi there! You are correct, the difference in SVP between ice and water is very significant in cloud formation. When both ice and water are present in a cloud, the lower SVP over ice causes water molecules to move from the water droplets to the ice crystals, resulting in the growth of the ice crystals at the expense of the droplets. This process is known as the Bergeron-Findeisen process and is a crucial mechanism in the formation of precipitation in clouds.

Another significance of this difference in SVP is in the freezing of water droplets at temperatures below 0C. Since the SVP over ice is lower, it is easier for water droplets to freeze and form ice crystals, which can then continue to grow through the Bergeron-Findeisen process. This is why we often see snow or ice crystals forming in clouds with temperatures below 0C.

Additionally, the difference in SVP also affects the vertical distribution of water in the atmosphere. Since the SVP over ice is lower, it allows for more water vapor to be present in the upper levels of the atmosphere, where temperatures are colder and ice crystals can form. This is important in the global water cycle and can impact weather patterns.

I hope this helps with your exam question. Good luck!
 

1. What is the difference between SVP over ice and water?

SVP stands for saturation vapor pressure, which is the maximum amount of water vapor that a given volume of air can hold at a certain temperature. The main difference between SVP over ice and water is the temperature at which it is measured. SVP over ice is measured at sub-freezing temperatures, while SVP over water is measured at above-freezing temperatures.

2. Why is it important to understand the difference between SVP over ice and water?

The difference between SVP over ice and water is important because it affects the formation and behavior of clouds. Clouds form when the air reaches its saturation point, which is influenced by the SVP over ice or water. This difference also affects weather patterns and precipitation, as well as the freezing and melting processes of ice and snow.

3. How does the difference between SVP over ice and water impact climate change?

The difference between SVP over ice and water is a crucial factor in understanding the Earth's climate and how it is changing. As the Earth's temperature increases due to climate change, the SVP over water also increases, leading to more water vapor in the air. This can result in more frequent and intense precipitation events, as well as changes in cloud formation and atmospheric circulation patterns.

4. Can the difference between SVP over ice and water be measured accurately?

Yes, the difference between SVP over ice and water can be measured accurately through various methods, such as using specialized instruments like a hygrometer or calculating it mathematically using the Clausius-Clapeyron equation. However, these measurements can be affected by factors such as wind speed and humidity, so multiple measurements are often taken to ensure accuracy.

5. How do scientists use the difference between SVP over ice and water in their research?

The difference between SVP over ice and water is a fundamental aspect of atmospheric science, and scientists use this knowledge to study and predict weather patterns, climate change, and the Earth's water cycle. It is also an important factor in understanding the behavior of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and their impact on the Earth's climate.

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