Yes, ice is a solid.
Based on the provided reference, ice is the solid state of water. Water is a substance that can exist in different physical states depending on its temperature and pressure. When water reaches a temperature of 0 °C (32 °F) or lower, it undergoes a phase transition and freezes into ice, which is its solid form.
Understanding States of Water
Water commonly exists in three states: solid, liquid, and gas. These states are determined by the energy of the water molecules and how closely they are packed together.
- Solid State (Ice): In ice, water molecules are locked into a rigid, crystalline structure. They vibrate in place but do not move freely. This gives ice a definite shape and volume.
- Liquid State (Water): In liquid water, molecules are still close together but can move past each other, allowing the liquid to flow and take the shape of its container while maintaining a definite volume.
- Gaseous State (Water Vapor/Steam): When water is heated to 100 °C (212 °F) or higher, it turns into water vapor, a gas. In this state, molecules are far apart and move randomly, expanding to fill any container.
Properties of Ice (Solid Water)
As a solid, ice exhibits characteristics typical of this state of matter:
- Definite Shape: A piece of ice holds its own shape (e.g., a cube, a flake).
- Definite Volume: The amount of space a specific mass of ice occupies is fixed (though density changes slightly with temperature).
- Rigidity: Ice resists changes in shape.
Here's a quick look at the states of water:
| State | Description | Temperature Range (at standard pressure) |
|---|---|---|
| Solid | Molecules locked in fixed positions; rigid | 0 °C (32 °F) and below |
| Liquid | Molecules move freely but stay close; flows | Above 0 °C (32 °F) to 100 °C (212 °F) |
| Gas | Molecules far apart, random motion; fills space | 100 °C (212 °F) and above |
Practical Insight: Why Ice Floats
Interestingly, ice is less dense than liquid water, which is why icebergs float and ice forms on the surface of lakes and rivers. This property is unusual for a substance transitioning from liquid to solid and is crucial for aquatic life in cold climates.
In conclusion, based on the fundamental definition of states of matter and the provided information, ice is unequivocally the solid form that water takes when cooled sufficiently.
