What describes snow grains?

Snow grains are described as small white ice grains that fall from stratus clouds. These are very fine and often resemble grains of snow. They are typically associated with stable atmospheric conditions where light precipitation occurs, generally falling in a more or less continuous manner. This type of precipitation is distinct due to its size and the clouds from which it originates, highlighting the specific conditions necessary for their formation.

The other descriptions provided do not accurately capture the characteristics of snow grains. Heavy snow typically refers to larger flakes falling during significant winter storms, while brittle ice pellets are more commonly associated with sleet, which is distinct from snow grains. Similarly, ice crystals forming in freezing air usually pertains to phenomena like hoarfrost or rime ice rather than the precipitation observed with snow grains. Therefore, identifying snow grains with small white ice grains falling from stratus clouds is precise and aligns with their meteorological classification and behavior.