Sleet

Sleet is a form of precipitation that occurs when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground. It is a type of frozen precipitation, but it is different from hail. Sleet forms when rain falls through a layer of cold air near the surface, causing the raindrops to freeze into small ice pellets before they reach the ground.

Formation of Sleet

When warm air from higher altitudes carries rain, it falls through a layer of cold air near the surface. This causes the raindrops to freeze into small ice pellets, which then reach the ground as sleet. Sleet can also occur when snowflakes partially melt as they fall through a warm layer of air and then refreeze into ice pellets before reaching the ground.

Characteristics of Sleet

• Sleet appears as small, translucent ice pellets.
• It can accumulate on the ground and create hazardous driving and walking conditions.
• Sleet is often accompanied by freezing rain and ice storms.

Study Guide for Sleet

1. What is sleet and how does it form?
2. Describe the characteristics of sleet.
3. What are the potential hazards associated with sleet?
4. How does sleet differ from hail?
5. Explain the conditions that lead to the formation of sleet.
6. Discuss the impact of sleet on transportation and outdoor activities.
7. Research and report on regions of the world where sleet is a common occurrence.

[Sleet] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Understanding WeatherScience • Eighth Grade