(Solved): Why does ice form on the surface of a lake, pond or water in general rather than sinking? Ice is den ...

Why does ice form on the surface of a lake, pond or water in general rather than sinking? Ice is denser than liquid water, so it floats on top. Hydrogen bonding causes water molecules to get closer as they freeze, making ice more dense than liquid water. The air temperature is colder at the surface, which prevents ice from forming at the bottom of fresh water. Hydrogen bonding causes water molecules to spread out as they freeze, making ice less dense than liquid water. The salt content in lakes, rivers and streams makes ice less dense, so it stays at the surface.