Question

A graph between the volume and temperature of water is shown. Explain the anomalous behaviour of water.

Answer 1

When a liquid is heated to a specific temperature, it expands and contracts upon cooling. Water, on the other hand, shrinks instead of expanding when heated from 0°C to 4°C. It has the smallest volume at 4°C (due to contraction). When water is heated further, it expands, and its volume increases. Water behaves abnormally between temperatures of 0°C and 4°C. It signifies that the density of water is greatest at 4°C.