Water pipes and frigid weather

[bjoyful]

Why is there the possibility of a water pipe breaking if the pipe is left full of water during extended frigid weather?

 

[JGK]

Density = Mass/volume

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

you can draw your own conclusion

 

[bjoyful]

Because the density of water is greater than ice?

 

[bjoyful]

And doesn't it have something to do with water expanding?

 

[JGK]

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 >>