Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: neilep on 04/10/2007 13:58:29

Title: Would Ice Cubes Float In Oil ?
Post by: neilep on 04/10/2007 13:58:29

Dear Peeps,

See this rather cool piccy of oil and water ?

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It's quite good isn't it ?


If I were to put an ice cube in it...where would it float ?

Title: Would Ice Cubes Float In Oil ?
Post by: eric l on 04/10/2007 14:36:42

That would depend on the oil.  Ice has a density of 0.91 to 0.93 (depending on temperature, but also on enclosed gas bubbles etc.).  Vegetable oils have densities in exactly that same range.  Linseed oil, as used in paints, is modified and may have a density over 1.
Mineral oils generally have densities lower than 0.9, so ice would sink.
I am quoting from memory, I don't have access to exact date right here and now.

Title: Would Ice Cubes Float In Oil ?
Post by: lightarrow on 04/10/2007 19:52:08

Quote from: neilep on 04/10/2007 13:58:29

If I were to put an ice cube in it...where would it float ?

I think you would get a faster answer if you made the experiment!

Title: Would Ice Cubes Float In Oil ?
Post by: Quantum_Vaccuum on 04/10/2007 21:26:32

i belive i've tried this before and like eric said, it would half float, half sink, so its nuetraly boyent

Title: Would Ice Cubes Float In Oil ?
Post by: paul.fr on 06/10/2007 16:49:19

sounds like a kitchen science for you, Neil.