When water freezes, what happens to its density?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the change in density of water when it freezes. Specifically, it seeks to understand how the physical properties of water change as it transitions from a liquid to a solid state.
Answer
Its density decreases.
When water freezes, its density decreases.
Answer for screen readers
When water freezes, its density decreases.
More Information
When water freezes, it forms a lattice structure due to hydrogen bonding. This structure is less dense than liquid water, causing water to expand by about 9% in volume.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking that ice would have a higher density than water because solids are usually denser than their liquid forms.
Sources
- What happens to the density of water as it starts to freeze? - homework.study.com
- The web page with info on - Example Source - lpi.usra.edu