Some may think that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But when it comes to snowmen? Nope. Turns out, there are scientific and mathematical ways to create a superior snowman this winter.
Not all snow is created equal. As a matter of fact, environmental factors can have a huge impact on the final product. Ms. Newman, a science teacher at Prep, shared how moisture content can impact the quality of the build:
“The moisture content has got to be low. Because if it’s a high moisture content, the snow isn’t going to be very compact, and it’s going to be hard to roll it into nice circles.”
In fact, moisture content is not the only factor that can impact the snowy companion. The temperature and amount of snow can also affect its lifespan.
Not to mention that the snowman needs shelter.
“30 degrees and a four-inch snowfall would be ideal,” continued Ms. Newman. “Maximum six inches of snow. And you have to build in an open field, because what if a tree falls on it?”
However, weather conditions are not the only threat to the wintery friend. It is well known that destructive children can leave laborious efforts in tatters. Mercifully, Ms. Newman has the solution to this problem as well.
“If you want to put clothes on it, it has to be light-colored clothing. And a short nose helps keep the temptation away from little kids too.”
But science is not the only thing that can help builders construct an icy friend. Math can also help eager architects construct an ideally structured snowman. As freshman Bella Yang of the Math Team explains, different geometrical tools can help to create a model ‘man.
“Of course, the base should be sphere,” said Yang. “But you can also incorporate different shapes, like a cone for the nose. And the arms can be cylinders.”
“Asymmetry is the perfect symmetry,” added Mr. Eagan, geometry teacher and Math Team leader, “It adds balance and juxtaposition. And, of course, it looks cuter.”
Still struggling to construct the perfect powdery pal?
“Maybe put the snowman in an igloo,” said Ms. Newman.
