Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: John Galt on 15/11/2010 05:30:03

Title: Does position in the freezer affect ice crystal structure?
Post by: John Galt on 15/11/2010 05:30:03

John Galt  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
I have noticed that ice trays stacked in the freezer exhibit different characteristics when emptied. The upper trays release the ice cubes cleanly. This characteristic changes incrementally in lower positions. Progressing to the lower ice trays, the ice cubes fracture upon release. The lowest trays exhibit the most intense fracturing. Is this a feature of heat convection where the temperature of the ice increases with increased relative height? If so, does the crystalline structure of the ice change causing  the release characteristics to change?

Thanks for your reply.

John

What do you think?