At what temperature range does rime ice typically form?

Rime ice typically forms in supercooled cloud droplets when temperatures are between approximately -15°C to -20°C. This temperature range is particularly conducive for rime ice formation because the extremely cold air allows water droplets to remain in a supercooled state, where they can freeze upon contact with an object, such as an aircraft wing.

As the supercooled droplets collide with a surface, they freeze almost instantly, creating a rough, white, and opaque accumulation of ice. Understanding this range is crucial for pilots and aviation professionals to anticipate and prepare for icing conditions, which can significantly affect aircraft performance and safety.