The Physics of Ice Melting:Water Level Changes

In summary, the conversation discusses the scenario of a beaker of water with a piece of ice floating on its surface. It is stated that when the ice melts, the water level remains unchanged. The discussion also considers the effect of a coin initially kept above the ice block and a situation where the ice piece has an air cavity or a miscible liquid trapped inside it. The solution involves understanding the displacement of water before and after the ice melts.
  • #1
_anant
7
0
source:british physics olympiad
:cool: a beaker of water has a piece of ice floating on its surface.When the ice melts,show that (by logic or by equations)
1.that the water level remains unchanged.
2.If a coin was initially kept above the ice block what chang will be there in answer to 1?
:-p 3.if the ice piece initially had an air cavity inside it how will the answer change?
:-p 4.if there is a miscible liquid TRAPPED inside the cavity then what will happen to the level of the water?:wink:
 
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  • #2
Think about the volume of water that was displaced before the ice melts, and the volume of water that was added after the ice melts (no more displacement).

Once you figure this out, all the other situations are just variations on the simple theme.
 
  • #3
This has been answered elesewhere. Here's a diagram for Part 1:
PF060917ice-water.gif
 

FAQ: The Physics of Ice Melting:Water Level Changes

What causes ice to melt?

Ice melts when it is exposed to temperatures above its freezing point, which is 32°F (0°C) for pure water. When heat is applied to ice, the molecules begin to vibrate and gain enough energy to break the bonds that hold them in a solid state, resulting in a phase change from solid to liquid.

How does melting ice affect water levels?

When ice melts, it increases the volume of water. This is because ice has a lower density than liquid water, so when it melts, it takes up more space. This increase in water volume can lead to changes in water levels in lakes, rivers, and oceans.

Can melting ice from glaciers and polar ice caps affect sea levels?

Yes, melting ice from glaciers and polar ice caps can significantly impact sea levels. The melting of these large ice masses adds more water to the oceans, leading to a rise in sea levels. This can have significant consequences for coastal communities and low-lying areas.

Does the rate of ice melting affect the rate of water level changes?

Yes, the rate of ice melting can have a direct impact on the rate of water level changes. If ice melts at a faster rate, more water will be added to the oceans, resulting in a faster rise in sea levels. Similarly, if ice melts at a slower rate, the rise in sea levels will be slower.

Are there any other factors besides melting ice that can contribute to changes in water levels?

Yes, there are other factors that can impact water levels, such as rainfall, evaporation, and human activities such as damming and water extraction. These factors can either increase or decrease water levels, depending on the specific circumstances and location.

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