key term - Freezing point

Definition

The freezing point is the temperature at which a liquid turns into a solid. It is the same temperature as the melting point for a given substance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1. The freezing point of water is 0°C or 32°F under standard atmospheric conditions.
2. 2. Impurities in a liquid, such as salt in water, typically lower its freezing point, a phenomenon known as freezing point depression.
3. 3. The freezing point can vary based on external pressure; higher pressures generally elevate the freezing point.
4. 4. Supercooling occurs when a liquid is cooled below its freezing point without solidifying.
5. 5. Different substances have different freezing points due to variations in molecular structure and intermolecular forces.

Review Questions

Related terms

Melting Point:

The temperature at which a solid turns into a liquid; identical to the freezing point for pure substances.

Supercooling: A process where a liquid remains in the liquid state below its normal freezing point.

Freezing Point Depression:

The lowering of the freezing point of a liquid by adding solutes, such as salt or alcohol.