Final answer:
The main factor that affects the rate of snowmelt on a mountain is the temperature. Higher temperatures lead to increased snowmelt by providing the necessary energy to overcome the latent heat of fusion.
Step-by-step explanation:
On a typical day, the amount of snow that melts on a mountain is most directly proportional to the temperature. This is because the snow absorbs energy from the surrounding air when temperatures rise above freezing, leading to a phase change from solid to liquid.Snow remains on mountain slopes even when daytime temperatures are slightly above the freezing point due to the latent heat of fusion. The process of melting requires not just any amount of heat, but enough to overcome this latent heat. Additionally, the melting rate is influenced by other factors such as direct sunlight, which can be reflected by the snow's surface, decreasing the amount of energy absorbed. Humidity and wind can affect evaporation and sublimation rates, but the primary factor for melting is still the temperature. Altitude also affects temperature; higher altitudes tend to have cooler temperatures even in sunny conditions.Conclusion While various factors can impact the rate at which snow melts, such as wind and humidity, the primary driving force is the ambient temperature. As the temperature increases, so does the rate of snowmelt, provided it surpasses the latent heat of fusion needed to turn ice into water.