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Floating ice

Floating ice in sea.

Water density changes with temperature and salinity. When water freezes at 0°C, a rigid open lattice (like a web) of hydrogen-bonded molecules is formed. It is this open structure that makes ice less dense than liquid water. This is why icebergs float.

Glossary

Rights: Dr Megan Balks
Published: 30 June 2010Size: 165.54 KB
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