Why Does Ice Appear White?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phenomenon of ice appearing white, primarily due to the scattering of light by tiny gas bubbles trapped within the ice. Participants explore methods to create transparent ice, emphasizing the importance of boiling water to remove dissolved gases and freezing techniques that minimize stress fractures. Key insights include the necessity of freezing slowly and uniformly, as well as the potential benefits of using a vacuum environment to achieve clearer ice. The conversation concludes with various experimental approaches and resources for making crystal clear ice.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of light scattering principles
  • Knowledge of ice formation and freezing processes
  • Familiarity with vacuum techniques in experimental setups
  • Basic chemistry of gases and their solubility in water
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for creating crystal clear ice using boiling water
  • Learn about the effects of pressure and vacuum on freezing water
  • Explore the principles of light scattering in different materials
  • Investigate the role of impurities in ice clarity and formation
USEFUL FOR

Anyone interested in chemistry, culinary arts, or experimental physics, particularly those looking to enhance their understanding of ice formation and clarity in culinary presentations.

  • #31
Sam Ku.D said:
nah! its not like that! boiled water! :3 if we boil water and then freeze it, will it be transparent?
Yea, it does not have to be boiled, just use hot water!
 
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  • #32
Boiling water is the simplest way of getting rid of dissolved gases.
 
  • #33
Borek said:
Boiling water is the simplest way of getting rid of dissolved gases.

I tried it, but the result was not that exciting. You can see some difference. It is still misty, probably due to stress and fractures. The only difference b/w myself and the guy in the video is that water he poured around the tray for insulation and uniform cooling.
 
  • #34
when the water is at zero degree celsius then it remains water until we move it and water molecules move creating ice. if you purchase ice from market and that ice have bubbles ,means the water of that ice is not pure.
 
  • #35
I think vibration may work also. If you freeze the water very slowly on a vibrating surface, i think you'd be able to force a lot of the bubbles out, or at least to the surface which you could then remove.
 

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