Diamond dust is a light dust or cloud that is formed just above the ground. This cloud contains ice crystals. It is sometimes also referred to as Clear Sky Precipitation because diamond dust is formed when the sky is clear.
Diamond dustSuch formation is very common in most parts of Arctic and Antarctica. In these areas, diamond dust is formed and remains on the ground for many days at a stretch. It can also be seen in areas where temperature is below freezing point.
Diamond dust is akin to fog. However, two major differences separate the two phenomena from each other. Fog is caused due by liquid form of water. Sometimes, fog freezes and is referred to as ice fog. But it differs from diamond dust, as the former freezes after forming in the liquid state, while the latter forms directly from ice. Second, fog is likely to affect visibility in the surrounding areas, whereas diamond dust is clearer and does not usually cause visibility problems to people.
It can be identified when many small diamonds are seen floating in the air from a distance of 20 to 30 meters because it reflects sunlight. This glittering shine is the reason why it is named as diamond dust.
How does diamond dust form?
How does diamond dust form
It is usually formed when the warmer air on the earth’s surface is mixed with the colder air that is some meters above the surface. Warm air is said to accommodate more vapor than cold air. When this vapor suddenly comes in contact with the cold air, it transforms into tiny pieces of ice.
In order to form ice crystals, the surrounding temperature should be low zero degree Celsius. There are also sometimes associated with haloes as it takes time to form and are in the shape of a hexagon. Sometimes, these crystals are also formed in the shape of prisms, reflecting light in a specific direction. It is not always possible for the weather department to detect ice crystals, but an observer can see it easily.