Strange Ice cube behavior

JabberWalkie

So, i've noticed that when I freeze ice cubes these strange icicles appear on the top of the ice. I took a picture, included as an attachment.

Not really sure how something like this forms. Please no speculation.

Attached Thumbnails

 

turbo

That is formed by deposition from above. Drip, drip, drip. Think stalagmite.

JabberWalkie

I don't see how, its a freezer...every thing is frozen, so nothing drips from above. Also, its not formed vertically, it is at an angle to the normal.

turbo

If you can come up with an alternate answer (one that does not violate the laws of physics) please feel free. There is only one way that a stalagmite-type extension can form on an ice cube. There could be a number of causes for the dripping, but the method of formation (deposition of liquid water from above and freezing into a column) is not negotiable.

russ_watters

All freezers have defrost cycles, JabberWalkie. There most certainly is liquid water on the walls and ceiling from time to time.

DaveC426913

Not "negotiable"??? Holy Jeez Turbo...

They are not stalagmites. Just because it walks like a duck doesn't mean it's a duck!


They are called Ice Spikes. They are formed as the top layer of water freezes over, leaving a smaller and smaller hole. The expansion of freezing water below this thin layer of ice causes water to bulge up through the hole, where it freezes in a ring.


Physically, if they can be compared to anything, they are more akin to deep sea volcanic vents.


(And I knew this before I looked on Wiki)

Gokul43201

Dave is exactly right. This is just the inverse effect of shrink porosity in metal casting (hence the use of risers).

russ_watters

Wow, I'd never heard of those things either. Learn something new...

JabberWalkie

Thanks guys!...i knew it couldn't just be water dripping from the roof.....had a hunch that there was some cool physics going on here. Thanks guys!