Chapter 15, Problem 32A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To distinguish between ice and other solid substances.

Concept Introduction: Solids are those particles in which the molecules are closely packed due to which the density of the solids will be high and they cannot float. Solids are rigid structures and they are rigid and do not take the shape of a container.

Answer to Problem 32A

The only difference between ice and other solids is that ice is less dense and floats on water whereas most solids are denser and do not float on water.

Explanation of Solution

In ice, a single water molecule in ice is bonded to four other water molecules. This arrangement will assure strong hydrogen bonding in a uniform extended crystal of ice. This orientation of hydrogen bonding pushes the molecules far apart, which makes them less dense as compared to other solids. In other solids, the bonding between the molecules is close enough, which makes the molecule rigid and make it denser.

Conclusion

Ice is formed from water. During the formation of ice, the hydrogen bonds will form an expansive network which will in turn reduce the density. Whereas, in solids, the intermolecular forces of attraction will be less due to the compact arrangement of the molecules.