Which of the following statements explains why ice floats on the surface of a pond?

• A. Ice contains more dissolved gases than liquid water.
• B. Ice has a higher temperature than liquid water.
• C. Ice is less dense than liquid water.
• D. Ice is more massive than an equal volume of liquid water.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of density, which is defined as mass per unit volume, given by the formula \(\text{density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}\).
2. Recognize that whether a substance floats or sinks in a liquid depends on its density relative to the liquid. If the substance is less dense, it will float; if it is more dense, it will sink.
3. Recall that water expands when it freezes, meaning ice occupies a larger volume than the same mass of liquid water, which affects its density.
4. Since the mass of ice and liquid water for the same amount of substance is essentially the same, but the volume of ice is greater, the density of ice is lower than that of liquid water.
5. Conclude that because ice is less dense than liquid water, it floats on the surface of a pond.