SNOW LINE Meaning and
Definition
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The "snow line" refers to a geographical demarcation that represents the lowest elevation point at which snow and ice persist throughout the year. This line is typically found in mountains or polar regions, serving as a boundary between areas that experience permanent snow and ice and those where snow melts away during warmer seasons. The snow line is influenced by various factors such as altitude, temperature, precipitation, and local climate patterns.
At higher elevations, cooler temperatures prevent snow from melting completely, allowing its accumulation over time. These areas are considered to be above the snow line. Conversely, at lower elevations where temperatures are generally milder, snow melts and does not persist year-round, marking locations below the snow line.
The snow line has important ecological implications as it influences the distribution of plant and animal species in mountainous regions. Vegetation tends to be less abundant above the snow line due to the harsher conditions such as freezing temperatures and lower soil availability. Animals too often exhibit adaptations to living in snow-covered environments, including specialized fur or feathers, or migration to lower elevations during winter.
Understanding the snow line is crucial for activities such as mountaineering, winter sports, or scientific research related to climate change. It serves as a visual marker of the transition from snow-covered terrain to non-snow covered landscapes, offering valuable information about the limits of snowfall and the effects of elevation on climate and vegetation.
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That line or limit of elevation, at and above which the surface is perpetually covered with snow and ice, having its limits lower in winter and higher in summer-being highest towards the equator, and gradually descending till it reaches the natural land-surface and seal-level, in the direction of the N. and S. poles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SNOW LINE
- anow line
- znow line
- xnow line
- dnow line
- enow line
- wnow line
- sbow line
- smow line
- sjow line
- sniw line
- snkw line
- snlw line
- snpw line
- sn0w line
- sn9w line
- snoq line
- snow oine
- snow ine
- snow hine
- snow nine
Etymology of SNOW LINE
The word "snow line" is a compound noun formed from the combination of "snow" and "line". "Snow" originated from the Old English word "snaw" (or "snǣw"), which has Germanic roots. The word "line" comes from the Latin word "linea", meaning "a linen thread" or "a stroke or mark". In the context of the term "snow line", "line" refers to a demarcation or boundary. Hence, the etymology of "snow line" signifies the boundary or demarcation where snow covers the ground, usually indicating a specific altitude or geographical region.
Similar spelling words for SNOW LINE
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