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Chemistry

The Science of Supercooling and Nucleation in Water Freezing

Quick fact

Pure water can be cooled to about -40°C before freezing, and even -48°C in tiny droplets, because it lacks the impurities or surfaces needed to kick-start ice formation.

Why this is interesting

You've probably seen a bottle of water freeze instantly when you tap it. But why does it stay liquid in the freezer, and then turn to ice in a split second?