What is one characteristic of frost?

Frost is a layer of ice that forms on surfaces when the temperature drops below freezing, typically at night or during the early morning hours. One key characteristic of frost is its ability to disrupt the boundary layer, which refers to the thin layer of air close to the Earth's surface that is affected by friction and thermal stability. When frost accumulates on aircraft surfaces, it alters the smooth flow of air over the wings and other control surfaces, which can lead to increased drag and reduced lift. This disruption can impact the aerodynamic performance of an aircraft, making it crucial for pilots to be aware of frost and its effects prior to takeoff and during flight operations.

In contrast, frost does not cause significant weight on aircraft, is not always associated with precipitation, and does indeed have an effect on flight, especially in terms of how it can alter aerodynamic properties. Understanding these effects helps in preparing for safe flight operations in colder conditions.