The melting point of ice is the temperature at which it changes from solid to liquid phase under a constant pressure, typically atmospheric pressure. For pure water ice, the standard melting point is 0°C (32°F). This point is where thermal energy overcomes the molecular bonds keeping ice solid.
However, the melting point can vary slightly depending on pressure. For example, if you apply more pressure, it can lower the melting point—a phenomenon easily explained by considering the molecular dynamics involved.
In the problem, we are asked to determine how a pressure change affects this melting point. This is where the Clausius-Clapeyron equation becomes handy, offering a way to quantify this change through established relationships between latent heat, volume change, and pressure.
Understanding the melting point is crucial since:
- It's a fundamental concept in thermodynamics and physical chemistry.
- Changes in melting points can indicate changes in molecular interactions.
- It has practical implications in areas such as climate science and engineering.