What happens to water molecules at the freezing point?

At the freezing point, water molecules lose energy and begin to move closer together, leading to a transition from a liquid state to a solid state. This process occurs as the temperature drops to 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit) for pure water at standard atmospheric pressure.

As the water freezes, the molecules arrange themselves into a crystalline structure, forming ice. This arrangement is stable and results in a solid that has a defined shape and volume. The strong hydrogen bonds that develop between the water molecules in the ice create a rigid lattice framework, which is why ice is less dense than liquid water and floats.

Understanding this process is crucial in water distribution systems because the formation of ice can lead to pipe ruptures, blockages, and other issues associated with frozen water within the infrastructure. This knowledge helps in planning and implementing strategies to prevent freezing in water distribution systems, particularly in colder regions.