Test Index

WAEC Physics 2017 Paper

Question : 22

Total: 50

The maximum density of water occurs at a temperature of

Solution:

Concept:

Water shows anomalous expansion due to hydrogen bonding, giving it maximum density at

4^\circ\text{C}

Explanation:

When water is cooled, its density increases because molecules come closer.

This continues until the temperature reaches

4^\circ\text{C}

Below

4^\circ\text{C}

, hydrogen bonding starts to form an open cage-like structure.

This structure increases the volume of water, so its density decreases.

Therefore, water has its maximum density at

4^\circ\text{C}

, not at

0^\circ\text{C}

Answer:

4^\circ\text{C}

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