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

26300 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define enthalpy of neutralisation and state standard conditions:


Explain how nucleophilic substitution for a haloalkane actually occurs?


Deduce the main organic product for the reaction of benzene with nitric acid in the prescence of sulfuric acid, and provide a complete mechanism for this reaction. (5 marks)


Molecules of hydrogen chloride, HCl, and molecules of fluorine, F2, contain the same number of electrons. Hydrogen chloride boils at –85 °C and fluorine boils at –188 °C. Explain why there is a difference in the boiling points of HCl and F2.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences