Spring IR Melting: The Raspberry Cane Effect

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the phenomenon known as the "Raspberry Cane Effect," where raspberry canes, when heated by the sun, re-radiate infrared (IR) energy that melts the surrounding snow. This effect occurs even when the canes are positioned above the snow surface, leading to noticeable depressions beneath them. The discussion draws parallels to similar melting patterns observed around tree trunks and fence posts, highlighting the unique characteristics of this specific phenomenon.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of infrared radiation and its effects on snow.
  • Basic knowledge of plant biology, specifically raspberry canes.
  • Familiarity with seasonal weather patterns and their impact on snow accumulation.
  • Observation skills to identify environmental phenomena.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of infrared radiation and its applications in agriculture.
  • Study the biology of raspberry plants and their growth patterns in spring.
  • Explore the effects of sunlight on snow melting in various environments.
  • Investigate similar phenomena in other plant species and their ecological implications.
USEFUL FOR

Gardeners, horticulturists, environmental scientists, and anyone interested in the interactions between plants and their winter environments.

turbo
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Here is something that I see every spring, when the sun gets higher in the sky and the temps moderate. Notice the depressions under the raspberry canes... The sun heats up the canes, both above and below (reflection from the snow) and the canes re-radiate IR, melting the snow below them, even if the canes are quite distant from the surface of the snow. This is similar in some ways to the pits that form around tree-trunks and fence-posts in the snow, but a little more interesting, IMO. BTW, those are 4' stakes in the center, just for scale.

canes.jpg
 
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Neat, Turbo. It's odd that after having been up to my *** in snow for most of my life, I've never paid any attention to that. I've certainly observed it, but never given it any thought.
 

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