Why does vegetable oil melt ice?

Answer 1

Vegetable oil does not melt ice; rather, it helps prevent ice from forming on surfaces. When vegetable oil is applied to a surface, it forms a thin layer that acts as a barrier, preventing water from freezing on that surface. This barrier reduces the likelihood of ice formation by inhibiting the water molecules from coming into contact with the cold surface and forming ice crystals.

Answer 2

Mixing almost any substance with water will lower its freezing point. When you mix vegetable oil with ice, the long molecules disrupt the ice crystals forming, thus lowering the freezing point and cause it to melt.