What happens to large water droplets during the clear icing process?

During the clear icing process, large water droplets encounter a surface temperature that is below freezing. When these droplets make contact with the airfoil or any surface that is cold enough, they break apart upon impact. This process creates a thin layer of water that can quickly freeze, leading to a solid ice formation on the surface. As the droplets strike the airfoil, the rapid cooling effect causes them to freeze almost instantly, leading to the characteristic clear, smooth ice that forms during this type of icing.

This phenomenon is critical to understand as it highlights the behavior of supercooled liquid water in flight conditions, where large droplets can significantly affect the aerodynamic characteristics of an aircraft. The formation of clear ice can lead to dangerous conditions, making it essential for pilots and aircraft operators to recognize and respond appropriately to potential icing situations.