Neve is a term used to describe the granular snow that forms on the surface of glaciers and ice caps. It is created when fresh snow compacts and undergoes metamorphism due to pressure and temperature changes. This process transforms the fluffy snow into denser, more stable ice, which is essential for the glacier's movement and stability. In the context of glaciology, neve plays a crucial role in the life cycle of glaciers. It accumulates during the winter months and melts during the summer, contributing to the glacier's mass balance. Understanding neve helps scientists predict changes in climate and the behavior of glaciers.