The surface structure and properties of atmospheric ice crystals

Theories to describe the structures and properties of ice surface were critically examined. Misconceptions were clarified in regard to treatment of the liquid-like layer that is expected to exist on the surface of an ice crystal below 0°C, 1 atm under equilibrium. It was shown that the pressure in the surface layer, not the surface free energy, is responsible for the formation of the liquid-like layer. Transformation of this layer into transitional liquid layer under ice-supersaturated conditions of the environment and the roles played by the latter layer in non-dendritic and dendritic growth of ice crystals were explained.