Snow Metamorphism: Equilibrium vs Kinetic

This lecture covers the significance and processes of snow metamorphism, including dry and wet snow metamorphism. It explains the effects of metamorphism on snowpack layering, structural strength, permeability, surface albedo, and thermal conductivity. The lecture delves into equilibrium metamorphism, driven by low vapor pressure and temperature gradients, leading to the destruction of original snow crystal shapes and bonding between grains. It also explores kinetic metamorphism, characterized by rapid growth of angular grains and weak bonding between grains. Various mechanisms of mass transport in porous media and the formation of depth hoar are discussed, along with examples of wet snow metamorphism and the classification of snow on the ground.