In anomalous expansion of water, at what temperature, the density of water is maximum?

CONCEPT:

• Anomalous Expansion of Water: An abnormal property of water due to which it contracts instead of expanding when the temperature increases from 0°C to 4°C, and it becomes denser at this temperature.
  • The density is maximum at 4° C.
  • Then density decreases as temperature goes below 4° C as shown in the graph.

• Also, water expands in volume from 4°C to higher temperature, and it becomes less dense at the temperature other than 4°C.

EXPLANATION:

• From the above theoretical portion, we can clearly say that the density of water is maximum at 4°C. So the correct answer will be option 1.

• Upon freezing, the molecules of water set themselves in an arrangement that is very open in nature and contains more space than the water in the liquid state. This is why water expands on freezing and becomes less dense.
• In winter season the water supply pipes open to the atmosphere ofter burst when the temperature of the surrounding falls below 4°C. This is due to the fact that water below 4°C expands (anomalous expansion) and exerts pressure on the walls of the pipes and thus causes damage to it.