Which type of precipitation includes ice pellets and snow crystals?

The correct answer is solid precipitation because this category includes forms of precipitation that consist of ice in various forms, such as snow crystals and ice pellets. Solid precipitation occurs when atmospheric conditions allow water vapor to condense and freeze in the atmosphere before reaching the ground, resulting in either snowflakes or ice pellets known as sleet.

Understanding the properties of solid precipitation is essential, as it can have a significant impact on weather conditions, temperature, and driving conditions. For instance, snow crystals form when water vapor undergoes deposition, creating intricate ice patterns, while ice pellets are formed when raindrops freeze before hitting the ground, which can contribute to slippery surfaces.

In contrast, liquid precipitation refers to rainfall, while freezing rain describes a specific phenomenon where liquid rain freezes upon contact with surfaces, forming a glaze of ice. Drizzle is a very light form of liquid precipitation. Each of these options represents different forms of precipitation processes and outcomes, but solid precipitation encompasses both ice pellets and snow crystals.