Lemon juice doesn't freeze at 0°C (32°F) like pure water. Because it contains citric acid and other solutes, it freezes at a lower temperature. Lemon juice typically does not freeze solid in a standard home freezer, which usually operates around -18°C (0°F). In fact, it can remain slushy even at temperatures as low as -11°C (12°F).
Here's a breakdown of why this happens:
- Freezing Point Depression: The presence of solutes (like citric acid, sugars, and other compounds) in lemon juice lowers its freezing point compared to pure water. This phenomenon is called freezing point depression.
- Variable Composition: The exact freezing point of lemon juice can vary slightly depending on the concentration of these solutes, which can differ from lemon to lemon and juice processing methods.
- Practical Implications: Because of this lowered freezing point, lemon juice can be stored in the freezer without completely solidifying. This is useful for preserving it for later use in cooking, beverages, or other applications.
While lemon juice won't freeze completely solid in a standard home freezer, the water content will begin to freeze, forming ice crystals. This can change the texture slightly, but the juice remains usable.
