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Chapter 5: Problem 10

What is unusual about water below the temperature of \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) ?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The unusual property of water below \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) is that its density decreases as the temperature drops, contrary to most substances. This behavior is due to the hydrogen bonds in water affecting its molecular structure, causing it to expand and become less dense. This phenomenon has significant ecological implications, as ice formed at the surface of lakes and oceans is less dense than the water beneath, acting as an insulating layer that prevents the water below from freezing. Thus, it helps aquatic life to survive even in cold environments.

Step by step solution

01

Background information

To understand what is unusual about water below \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), it's essential to know that as most substances cool, their density increases. However, water behaves differently in the temperature range from \(0^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) to \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\).
02

Water density as a function of temperature

Water has its maximum density at \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\). As the temperature decreases from \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) to \(0^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), water's density actually decreases. Below \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), the hydrogen bonds in water affect its molecular structure, causing it to expand and become less dense.
03

Ice formation

When water freezes at \(0^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), it forms a crystalline structure that further reduces its density. The ice formed is less dense than the water at \(4^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), which is why ice floats on top of liquid water.
04

Importance of this unusual behavior

This unusual behavior of water has significant implications for ecosystems in bodies of water such as lakes and oceans. Since ice forms at the surface and is less dense than the water beneath, it provides insulation that helps to prevent the water below from freezing. This allows aquatic life to continue to survive even in cold environments.

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