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Explain why an ice cube will melt if compressed, even though the temperature remains the same

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User Abra
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A ice cube melts if compressed, because increasing the pressure decreases the melting point of water.

Ice has an open crystalline structure.

This structure collapses to a smaller volume when the ice melts to form liquid water.

Ice and water are at equilibrium at 0 °C.

If you apply pressure at 0 °C, the ice will melt in an attempt to relieve the stress and get to a smaller volume.
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User Drubio
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