Question

Why is sublimation such a critical component for the water cycle in cold climates?

Answer 1

Sublimation is the transition in physical state from solid (ice) to vapor with no intermediate liquid stage. In other words, the ice becomes water vapor without melting. Ideal weather conditions would be low humidity (to allow vaporization), high altitude (lower air pressure facilitates the transition), and strong sunlight (to provide the energy for the transition). High snow-packed mountain ranges offer all of these conditions. Since the temperature is too cold for evaporation, sublimation is needed to provide enough water vapor to feed the water cycle and promote precipitation elsewhere on the planet. Without it, the water would stay frozen in the snow and ice and reduce the amount of liquid water that would replenish the planet.

Step-by-step explanation:

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Answer 2

The air is so dry that when it hits a snowpack, the frozen water evaporates, going directly from the ice to vapor and bypassing the liquid phase entirely. This is called sublimation, and it's a common way for snow to disappear in the arid West."