Why does ice float on water?

When water freezes into ice, the H2O molecules form Hydrogen bonds between each other and arrange themselves into an open lattice structure. This causes the molecules in ice to be further apart from each other, when compared to water molecules. This means that ice is less dense than water, hence why it floats. 

JC
Answered by James C. Chemistry tutor

25545 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Give and explain 2 of the anomalous properties of ice caused by hydrogen bonding


Explain the trend in the boiling temperatures of the elements on descending group 7, from fluorine to iodine.


In terms of reaction mechanisms, what exactly is the rate-determining step?


Name and draw the mechanism by which benzene reacts with ethanoyl chloride in the presence of a catalyst. Also explain why benzene undergoes a substitution reaction, rather than an addition reaction.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences