Liquid Water Equivalent of New Snow from a Core Sample

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of collecting a core sample from your snowboard to measure the liquid water equivalent of new snowfall. Understanding this measurement is essential for snow science, especially in fields like hydrology and meteorology. By following these steps, you'll be able to accurately assess the snowpack's moisture content.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials ready:

• A snow core sampler (can be a specialized tool or a PVC pipe)
• A ruler or measuring tape
• A container for collecting the snow sample
• A notebook or data sheet for recording measurements

Tip: A core sampler should be around 6 to 10 inches in diameter for optimal sampling.

Step 2: Select the Sampling Location

Choose an appropriate location on your snowboard or in the snowpack:

• Look for an area with freshly fallen snow to ensure you're measuring new snowfall.
• Avoid areas that have been disturbed or compacted, as they may not provide accurate readings.

Common Pitfall: Sampling too close to trees or buildings can lead to variations in snowfall due to wind effects.

Step 3: Collect the Core Sample

Follow these steps to extract the snow core:

1. Firmly press the core sampler into the snow until you reach the desired depth (typically about 10 inches).
2. Twist the sampler gently to loosen the snow, then pull it out vertically to maintain the integrity of the sample.
3. Ensure that the snow remains inside the sampler as you remove it.

Tip: If the snow is particularly hard or crusty, you may need to warm the sampler slightly with your hands for easier penetration.

Step 4: Measure the Liquid Water Equivalent

Once you have the core sample, you can measure its liquid water equivalent:

1. Place the snow sample into a container.
2. Allow the snow to melt completely, preferably at room temperature to avoid losing moisture.
3. Measure the volume of water collected after melting.

Formula: To calculate the liquid water equivalent of the snow, use the formula:

Liquid Water Equivalent (in inches) = (Volume of water (in cubic inches) / Area of the sample collection (in square inches))

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can accurately determine the liquid water equivalent of new snowfall from a core sample. This information is valuable for understanding snowpack conditions and predicting water availability in the spring.

For future measurements, consider keeping a log of your findings for ongoing analysis and comparison. Happy snow sampling!