Snow Properties: Distribution, Variability, and Dynamics

This lecture covers the geographical distribution of snow based on latitude, elevation, and continentality, as well as the spatial and temporal variability of snow accumulation at macro, meso, and micro scales. It discusses the influence of elevation, vegetation, and topography on snow distribution, emphasizing the importance of snow water equivalent (SWE) in hydrology. The lecture also delves into snow physical properties such as volume, density, liquid water content, and permeability, highlighting their significance in understanding snow behavior. Furthermore, it explores snowpack porosity, snowpack density, and snowpack depth, providing insights into the mechanical and electromagnetic properties of snow.