This question cannot be answered without more context. "It" is too vague. To determine if what you are observing is snow or graupel, you need to observe it directly and consider its characteristics.
Here's how you can distinguish between the two:
Snow vs. Graupel: Key Differences
| Feature | Snow | Graupel |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Delicate, six-sided crystals | Small, opaque, round pellets |
| Texture | Flaky, soft | Granular, crumbly, firmer than snow |
| Density | Low | Higher than snow |
| Formation | Water vapor freezes into ice crystals | Snow crystals collect supercooled water |
| Precipitation | Falls in cold temperatures | Often precedes or mixes with snow |
In Summary:
- Snow: Consists of intricate, crystalline flakes.
- Graupel: Looks like small, soft hailstones or polystyrene beads. It's essentially snow that has become heavily rimed (coated with ice).
Therefore, to answer the question "Is it snow or graupel?", you need to physically examine "it" and compare its characteristics to the table above.
