Where do frost and ice form quicker and are retained longer?

Frost and ice tend to form quicker and last longer on bridges and shaded spots due to several factors related to temperature and exposure. Bridges are elevated structures that allow cold air to circulate both above and below the road surface, causing them to cool more rapidly than roads that are surrounded by solid ground. This can lead to more rapid freezing of moisture on the bridge surface as it loses heat more quickly. Additionally, shaded areas do not receive direct sunlight, which can prevent melting and contribute to the retention of frost and ice.

In contrast, highways and overpasses are often subject to more traffic, which can generate heat and contribute to melting. Open fields and dirt roads may not have the same exposure conditions as bridges, and surface water on lakes and ponds generally remains insulated by the water beneath, preventing quick freezing compared to exposed surfaces. Therefore, the tendency of frost and ice to form more quickly and last longer on bridges and shaded areas is influenced by their specific environmental conditions.