Book 20, Question 122
How Can Scientists Measure Snow in Inches of Water?
Scientists can measure snow in inches of water because snow is mostly air. They find out how much water is hidden inside the snow. This is called snow water equivalent.
More fun facts
- Scientists measure snow by how much water it holds.
- This is called snow water equivalent.
- Weather watchers can melt snow caught in a can to measure its water.
- Volunteers can measure snow depth to help.
- Scientists turn those depths into water amounts.
Sources: U.S. Geological Survey, NASA Science, NOAA
Questions kids ask
What is snow water equivalent?
It is how much water a snowpack holds.