Dry Ice: Solid Carbon Dioxide
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide, a gas. It is called "dry ice" because it does not melt into a liquid when heated; instead, it undergoes sublimation, directly changing from a solid to a gas. Here are some key points to understand about dry ice:
1. Composition:
- Dry ice is made up of carbon dioxide molecules arranged in a solid lattice structure.
- It is produced by compressing and cooling carbon dioxide gas to a temperature below -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109.3 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Properties:
- Dry ice appears as a white, solid block or pellets.
- It is extremely cold, with a temperature of around -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109.3 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Unlike water ice, dry ice does not melt; it sublimates directly into carbon dioxide gas when exposed to higher temperatures.
3. Uses:
- Dry ice is commonly used as a cooling agent in various industries, such as food transportation, medical shipping, and scientific research.
- It is also utilized in fog machines for creating special effects in theatrical productions and concerts.
- Dry ice can be used for cleaning (known as dry ice blasting) to remove contaminants or to cool materials rapidly.
4. Safety Precautions:
- Dry ice should be handled with care since direct contact can cause frostbite or burns.
- It should never be stored in airtight containers as the sublimation of carbon dioxide gas can cause pressure buildup.
In conclusion, dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide and is widely used for its cooling properties in various industries. Its unique characteristics, such as sublimation and extreme coldness, make it a valuable resource for applications ranging from shipping to special effects.

What is dry ice?
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide (CO2) at a temperature of -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109.3 degrees Fahrenheit). It is commonly used as a cooling agent in various applications.
- Physical Properties:
Dry ice does not melt like regular ice; instead, it sublimes directly from a solid to a gas. This process results in the characteristic fog or "smoke" that is often associated with dry ice.
- Applications:
Dry ice is commonly used for preserving food, transporting medical supplies, creating special effects in the entertainment industry, and as a coolant for machinery. It is also used in science experiments and demonstrations due to its unique properties.
- Safety Considerations:
Handling dry ice requires caution as it can cause frostbite if it comes into direct contact with the skin. It should only be used in well-ventilated areas to prevent an accumulation of carbon dioxide gas, which can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts.
- Disposal:
When disposing of dry ice, it is important to follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents. Dry ice should never be disposed of in airtight containers as the pressure buildup can lead to an explosion. Instead, it should be allowed to sublimate in a well-ventilated area.
In conclusion, dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide that is widely used for its cooling properties and unique characteristics. When handling dry ice, it is essential to follow safety guidelines to prevent any accidents or injuries.