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  • Why does ice float on water?

  • To take a sunbath.

  • No.

  • It is because of density.

  • Density is the measure of mass present per unit volume.

  • Lesser the density, lighter is the object.

  • Now, every water molecule has two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom.

  • However, besides being attached to its own oxygen atom.

  • A hydrogen atom is also attracted to oxygen atoms of other water molecules.

  • Forming hydrogen bonds.

  • In liquid state, the hydrogen bonds are not strong.

  • They constantly break and reform.

  • Thus, the molecules get arranged in disordered patterns which leave very less empty spaces.

  • However, when temperature drops below 4 degrees Celsius and ice begins to form.

  • The hydrogen bonds become strong and stable.

  • Forming hexagonal patterns which have a large number of empty spaces.

  • These large empty spaces make ice less dense or lighter than water, causing ice to float on water.

Why does ice float on water?

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