Fresh water has its maximum density at
A) 0 °C.
B) 4 °C.
C) 32 °C.
D) 100 °C.
E) below freezing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fresh water has its maximum density at 4°C because below this temperature, water molecules start to form a structured lattice, thus decreasing the density. Above this temperature, the thermal energy of the water molecules starts to overcome the molecular forces, causing water to expand and its density to decrease as well. Therefore, at 4°C, water has its highest density, making it an important factor in the ecology and physics of aquatic systems.

Fresh Water Has Its Maximum Density at