Is it true that when ice-cubes melt it absorbs energy?

Answer 1

The molecules in an ice cube arrange themselves so the mutual forces of attraction between the molecules is stronger then they are in liquid form. These forces can be overcome by adding energy to the ice cube, which starts the molecules jiggling until they break free. When they break free you have water. So energy isn't released by a melting ice cube, it is absorbed. The amount of energy that must be absorbed to just melt the ice (overcome those strong attractive forces), without raising the temperature is called the "latent heat of fusion". Every solid that can be melted to a liquid form has a "latent heat of fusion". This is a number you can look up and is different for different substances. In the reverse situation, when water turns to ice, the water releases energy (latent heat of fusion again)and the molecules slow down enough to be captured by the stronger forces. In the South, when a freeze is coming, the farmers will spray their crops with water because before it can turn to ice it first releases the latent heat of fusion energy. This will keep the crops slightly above freezing for a little longer then without the water spray and they hope its long enough.

Answer 2

Yes, it takes energy to move from ice at 0 deg to water at 0 deg. This is known as Latent Heat of Fusion.

[A similar thing happens when water is turned into vapour (steam), Called Latent Heat of Evaporation. ]

Answer 3

i believe energy is absorbed when an ice cube melts.

Answer 4

Its absorbed think what happens when it freezes

Answer 5

Melting ice absorb energy. Energy is used to convert it into water.

Answer 6

Energy releases because matter turns lighter to denser state.

Answer 7

Heat will be absorbed

Answer 8

It absorbs energy i.e endothermic

Answer 9

change in mass

Answer 10

Melting absorb energy.