Usually, the solid form of given substance has greater density and it is also heavier than the liquid form for the same volume. But in the case of water, its solid form is lighter than its liquid form. This is due to:
Anomalous behaviour of water
Usually, the solid form of given substance has greater density and it is also heavier than the liquid form for the same volume. But in the case of water, its solid form is lighter than its liquid form. This is due to the anomalous behaviour of water. Generally, when something is heated, it expands and its density decreases and when it is cooled, it contracts and its density increases. Accordingly, when water is cooled, it contracts and its density increases but only until the temperature reaches 4∘C, because, on further cooling, water starts expanding, with a decrease in its density, which is an anomalous phenomenon. At 0∘0C, it becomes ice and this ice floats on water. The density of water is, therefore, the greatest at 4∘C, which is equal to 1 g/cm3 or 1 kg/litre.