A mechanism for ice growth on the surface of a spherical water droplet

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical framework showing how Casimir-Lifshitz interactions can promote ice growth on tiny spherical water droplets, impacting cloud formation and climate models.

Contribution

It introduces a novel theoretical model linking van der Waals forces to ice nucleation on small droplets, highlighting the role of curvature in ice formation.

Findings

Small droplets (10-5000 nm) can significantly grow in volume due to Casimir-Lifshitz interactions.

The curvature of droplets influences ice nucleation and growth processes.

Potential detectable phenomena related to curvature effects are identified.

Abstract

The formation and growth of ice particles, particularly on the surfaces of spherical water droplets, bear profound implications for localized weather systems and global climate. Herein, we develop a theoretical framework for ice nucleation on minuscule water droplets, establishing that $10\sim5000\rm\ nm$ droplets can considerably increase in volume, making a substantial contribution to ice formation within mist, fog, or even cloud systems. We reveal that the Casimir-Lifshitz (van der Waals) interaction within these systems is robust enough to stimulate both water and ice growth on the surfaces of ice-cold spherical water droplets. The significant impacts and possible detectable phenomena from the curvature are demonstrated.