Compressibility of Ice vs Water: Answers & Explanations

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SUMMARY

Ice is compressible, but its compressibility is significantly lower than that of water. When a force is applied to ice, it can temporarily deform the crystal structure, leading to a thin film of water that reduces friction. However, if the force is substantial enough, ice will transition into water. The discussion highlights the unique property of ice having a lower density than water, which contributes to its slippery nature.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts related to pressure and density
  • Familiarity with the properties of ice and water
  • Knowledge of crystal structures and their behavior under force
  • Basic comprehension of friction and its coefficients
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the compressibility of various materials, focusing on ice and water
  • Explore the physics of phase transitions, particularly from solid to liquid
  • Study the molecular structure of ice and its implications on physical properties
  • Investigate the effects of pressure on the behavior of different states of matter
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Students of physics, researchers in material science, and anyone interested in the physical properties of ice and water.

Neitrino
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Dear PF,

Is ice compressible? What its compressibility... or compressibility relatively to water compressibility


Thanks much
 
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An interesting property of ice is that it has a lower density than water which explains why it's so slippery, as you step on the ice the force compresses the crystal structure which breaks it and causes a thin film of water which has a very low coefficient of friction. So yes ice can be compressed but it won't be long until it's no longer ice.
 
OK as i understand I can compress ice till it complitely turns into water... if a have an ice cube and i exert force (big force) whole ice will turn into water... but what is its compressibility when my force is not that big to turn the ice cube into water ?
 

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