Investigating an Unexpected Ice Spike Formation

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    Formation Ice
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the formation of an unexpected ice spike in a plastic container filled with water, placed in a freezer. Participants explore potential explanations for this phenomenon, including the conditions under which it occurred and the properties of the water used.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes the conditions of the experiment, noting the use of a plastic container and the uncertainty regarding whether deionized water was used.
  • Another participant provides a link to a resource that may offer insights into ice spike formation.
  • A participant shares their experience working with deionized water in a lab and expresses confusion about the effects of the phase change on the inner volume of the container.
  • The participant also notes that this was the only instance of ice spike formation they encountered during five years of similar experiments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the cause of the ice spike formation, and multiple viewpoints regarding the contributing factors remain present.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the specific temperature settings of the freezer and the exact nature of the water used, which may influence the formation of ice spikes.

OwtLyur
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Hi,

I was just wondering if anyone could shed some light on how this ice spike formed?

All I did was fill a 4" tall, 4" diameter plastic container with water and put it in a normal refridgerator freezer. I came back the next morning and found what you see in the photos.

I likely used deionized water but I don't remember this for sure. The freezer's temperature control was turned all the way down (the temperature of which I do not remember).



-ol
 

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Hi,

Thanks again for the links. I had a similar thought as well.

I was confused a bit because of the change of state. I was unsure how the generating ice would effect the inner volume.

I worked in a lab where we froze DI water often. I did this for 5 years and this was the only time it happened. This ice spike measures about 3".


Anyway, thanks again!


-ol
 

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