What property of ice allows it to float in water?

• A. Ice is less viscous than liquid water.
• B. Ice has a lower density than liquid water.
• C. Ice has a higher density than liquid water.
• D. Ice has a higher surface tension than liquid water.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of density: Density is defined as mass per unit volume. It is a measure of how much matter is contained in a given volume.
2. Compare the densities of ice and liquid water: Ice is the solid form of water, and it has a crystalline structure that occupies more space than the liquid form. This means that for the same mass, ice has a larger volume than liquid water.
3. Apply the principle of density to floating: An object will float in a liquid if it is less dense than the liquid. Since ice has a lower density than liquid water, it will float.
4. Consider the molecular structure: In ice, water molecules are arranged in a hexagonal lattice due to hydrogen bonding, which increases the volume and decreases the density compared to liquid water.
5. Conclude with the correct property: The property that allows ice to float in water is its lower density compared to liquid water.