Water pipes and frigid weather

AI Thread Summary
Water pipes can break in frigid weather due to the expansion of freezing water. As water freezes, it expands by approximately 9.6%, increasing its volume significantly. This expansion occurs even in confined spaces like pipes, leading to pressure buildup. The density difference between liquid water and ice contributes to this phenomenon, as ice is less dense and occupies more space. Consequently, if pipes are left full of water during cold temperatures, they risk splitting or breaking.
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Why is there the possibility of a water pipe breaking if the pipe is left full of water during extended frigid weather?
 
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Density = Mass/volume

Density water = 1g/mL
Ice = 0.92 g/mL

you can draw your own conclusion
 
Because the density of water is greater than ice?
 
And doesn't it have something to do with water expanding?
 
I provided you with the equation to prove this...

If a mass of water freezes the ice volume is 109.6% bigger

In a confined environment like a pipe this expansion will still occur and possibly :

split the pipe, break joints etc

<< post edited slightly by berkeman >>
 
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