What characterizes freezing rain?

Freezing rain is characterized by the phenomenon where supercooled liquid droplets fall from the atmosphere and freeze upon contact with surfaces. This occurs when there is a layer of warm air aloft, allowing the precipitation to be in liquid form as it descends. As these droplets encounter colder surfaces, they instantly freeze, forming a layer of ice. This is crucial in understanding freezing rain, as it can result in significant ice accumulation, leading to dangerous conditions on roadways, power lines, and trees.

The other options do not accurately depict the nature of freezing rain. Freezing before reaching the ground typically refers to different types of precipitation, such as sleet, which involves freezing in transit. The aggregation of snowflakes pertains to a different process entirely and does not relate to the behavior of supercooled droplets. Evaporation of liquid drops before they reach the ground describes a phenomenon known as virga rather than freezing rain.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique characteristics and potential hazards associated with freezing rain.