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BIO NMDCAT Biological Importance of Water
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The lower density of ice compared to liquid water is most directly explained by the

A. Reduction in the mass of the oxygen atom at low temperatures
B. Cessation of all molecular motion in ice crystals
C. Maximum hydrogen bond formation creating an open, crystalline lattice structure
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D. Release of dissolved gases that previously occupied space within the liquid

📝 Explanation

In liquid water, hydrogen bonds constantly break and reform, allowing close packing. Upon freezing, water molecules lock into a stable, tetrahedral arrangement where each molecule is H-bonded to four others, creating large spaces. This expanded lattice results in lower density.

📖 Additional Information

  • Reduction in the mass of the oxygen atom at low temperatures
  • Cessation of all molecular motion in ice crystals
  • Maximum hydrogen bond formation creating an open, crystalline lattice structure
  • Release of dissolved gases that previously occupied space within the liquid

In liquid water, hydrogen bonds constantly break and reform, allowing close packing. Upon freezing, water molecules lock into a stable, tetrahedral arrangement where each molecule is H-bonded to four others, creating large spaces. This expanded lattice results in lower density.

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