CIRCIN · PREVIEW
Why salt actually melts ice
0:47 · sample listing — there is no video file behind it
Why salt actually melts ice
It is not heat, it is chemistry. Freezing-point depression in 40 seconds.
Sample discussion
Written for the demo, not posted by anyone. Real comments live in the app.
@younow
Saving this for my chem final, thank you!
Saving this for my chem final, thank you!
Question@confused_casey2h
At 0:42 — why does the road get COLDER while the ice is melting? That feels backwards.
At 0:42 — why does the road get COLDER while the ice is melting? That feels backwards.
@mayachenchem1h
Great catch — melting takes energy, and the salt water pulls that energy from itself and the road. So the slush can drop below 0°C. Backwards-feeling, but right.
Great catch — melting takes energy, and the salt water pulls that energy from itself and the road. So the slush can drop below 0°C. Backwards-feeling, but right.
@frostbite_ken2h
Wait, so is this why they also throw sand down? or is sand just for grip?
Wait, so is this why they also throw sand down? or is sand just for grip?
@mayachenchem2h
Sand is only for traction, no melting involved. Great question.
Sand is only for traction, no melting involved. Great question.
@skeptic_sam1h
Isn't this technically not melting? The ice still needs energy from somewhere.
Isn't this technically not melting? The ice still needs energy from somewhere.
@mayachenchem1h
Right, it lowers the freezing point and the melting pulls heat from the surroundings, which is why the road gets colder. Good catch.
Right, it lowers the freezing point and the melting pulls heat from the surroundings, which is why the road gets colder. Good catch.
@nina.k44m
finally an explanation that isn't 20 minutes long
finally an explanation that isn't 20 minutes long
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Quick note: this only works down to about -9C (18F). Below that road crews switch to a different salt. Keeping this pinned.