A Numerical Simulation of Ice Crystal Growth from the Vapor Phase

Abstract

A detailed scheme for numerically integrating the diffusion equation for ice crystal growth is presented. The scheme is based on an extensive survey of observed crystal habits, densities and masses. Discrepancies between various reports are discussed critically. The need for more definitive data is underscored. The predicted crystal masses are compared with the reported observations and with previous numerical studies. The current model is shown to give reasonable predictions of ice crystal habit, density and mass as functions of time.