Effect of Common Salt on Melting Point Temperature of Ice

When common salt is added to ice, the melting point temperature of ice decreases. This phenomenon is known as freezing point depression.

Explanation

Ice normally melts at 0°C (32°F) under standard conditions. However, when common salt is added to ice, the salt dissolves in the thin layer of water on the surface of the ice. This process involves the absorption of heat, which reduces the temperature of the ice.

The salt ions lower the freezing point of the water, which means that the ice will need to be colder than 0°C to remain solid. The salt ions interfere with the formation of ice crystals, making it more difficult for water molecules to come together and form a solid lattice.

As a result, the ice needs to be cooled to a lower temperature than 0°C to remain solid. The melting point temperature of ice decreases, and the ice will melt at a lower temperature than it would have without the salt.

Application of Freezing Point Depression

Freezing point depression has many practical applications. For example, salt is often used to de-ice roads and sidewalks in winter. The salt dissolves in the thin layer of water on the surface of the ice, reducing the temperature at which the water freezes and preventing the formation of ice.

Similarly, freezing point depression is used in the production of ice cream. Salt is added to the ice and water mixture in an ice cream maker to lower the temperature at which the ice cream freezes. This allows the ice cream to freeze quickly and become creamy and smooth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of common salt to ice causes a decrease in the melting point temperature of ice. This phenomenon is known as freezing point depression and has many practical applications in everyday life.

If a salt is added to ice , the melting point of ice decreases.
Reason :
This is because of addition of non volatile solute salt which causes depression in the freezing point of water. Due to this water freezes at a lower temperature and thus ice starts melting at a faster rate