Question

What is the anomalous expansion of water?

Answer 1

Hint- In order to solve this question, firstly we will understand the concept of anomalous expansion of water and its importance. Then we will find the required answer i.e. anomalous expansion of water.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Water shows the un-natural behavior which makes it unique. Between a certain range of temperatures, it shows anomalous expansion of water which has many applications. This helps in the survival of marine life, this is one of the major importance of this behavior of water, and there are many applications which are discussed. Also from the graph, we can see that density increases as temperature rises to 4 degree celsius and then density decreases.
A typical observation found in the behaviour of the substances is that they expand when warmed as the density diminishes and vice versa it happens when the material is cooled. This is the means by which substances generally respond to heat.

Generally, on heating water it expands and on cooling it contracts. But in the case of liquid, it shows unusual behavior from to. Between this range, water does not follow the law of contraction and expansion. In other words, water attains its maximum density and minimum volume is inversely proportional to density.

Applications of anomalous expansion of water are-

1. Aquatic life – As the temperature reaches, it reaches its maximum density and sinks to the bottom of a lake or pond or any water bodies. Therefore, the volume increases and density decreases due to which water starts floating on top.

2. Bottle burst – If you put a full – filled water bottle in the refrigerator and its temperature is below. Then according to the anomalous behavior of water, the water inside the bottle will expand.

Note- While solving this question, we must know that the common observation seen in the behavior of the substances is that they expand when heated as the density decreases and vice-versa takes place when the material is cooled.