Question

Why does ice float on liquid water?

It is a compound without carbon atoms that exists in the liquid state at room temperature and pressure.

The linear structure of the water molecule allows ice molecules to pack together tightly enough to allow ice to float.

Water molecules in the solid form are held in a crystal pattern that has voids between the molecules.

Ice is structurally similar to wood, so ice floats on water in a manner similar to wooden ships where air becomes trapped in cells within the solid structure.

Oxygen’s low electronegativity leads to the collapse of the crystal structure, allowing the molecules to become closer together in water.

Answer 1

Ice floats on liquid water because ice is structurally similar to wood, so ice floats in a manner similar to wooden ships where air becomes trapped in cells within the solid structure.