  A Monte Carlo algorithm to simulate the isothermal recrystallization process
of snow is presented. The snow metamorphism is approximated by two mass
redistribution processes, surface diffusion and sublimation-deposition. The
algorithm is justified and its parametrization is determined. The simulation
results are compared to experimental data, in particular, the temporal
evolution of the specific surface area and the ice thickness. We find that the
two effects of surface diffusion and sublimation-deposition can accurately
model many aspects of the isothermal metamorphism of snow. Furthermore, it is
shown that sublimation-deposition is the dominant contribution for temperatures
close to the melting point, whereas surface diffusion dominates at temperatures
far below the melting point. A simple approximation of gravitational compaction
is implemented to simulate density change.
