The discussion revolves around the thermal dynamics of ice melting in water, specifically addressing the final temperature of the mixture when ice is added to water at different initial temperatures. The subject area includes concepts of phase transitions, freezing point depression, and thermal energy transfer.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants examining different perspectives on the temperature behavior of the water-ice mixture. Some have provided insights into the effects of solutes, while others emphasize the phase transition at 0°C. There is no explicit consensus, as various interpretations of the problem are being explored.
Participants note that the original problem does not specify whether the water is distilled or contains solutes, which may affect the outcome. There is also uncertainty regarding the measurement methods for temperature.
Yes, it is possible to have water at a temperature less than 0oC if it has some solute (e.g. salt) dissolved in it, this is known as freezing point depression. In general, the more solute(salt) you add to a solvent(water), the lower the freezing (and hence boiling) point becomes.wakejosh said:I have heard that when ice mixes completely with water then the Ice will be completely melted and the temperature of the water willl actually be below 0 C, is this true?
This is indeed true, thermal energy is transferred from the water (and other surroundings) to increase the internal energy of the ice. As an aside, I have seen examples where the temperature of pure water (distilled) has been reduced to around -5oC before any ice has formed, however, once ice is formed the temperature increases again back up to 0oC.berkeman said:But also in the absence of a solute, Icewater should be at 0C while the ice is melting, I believe, since it is at the phase transition temperature. Is that right Hootenanny?
Is the water from a tap or distilled? What are you measuring the temperature with?wakejosh said:he says that when they have mixed the Ice will be melted and the water can actually be below 0 C, he said nothing about Salt, nor does the problem.
Hootenanny said:Is the water from a tap or distilled? What are you measuring the temperature with?