The freezing point of water

The freezing point of water is the temperature at which water changes from a liquid to a solid (ice).

Freezing point of water

1. Temperature. Water freezes at 0°C (32°F) under standard atmospheric pressure (1 atmosphere or 101.3 kPa).
2. Process. As water cools down, its molecules slow down and begin to form a regular pattern. When the temperature reaches 0°C, the molecules lock into a rigid structure, and the liquid water becomes solid ice.

Factors affecting the freezing point

• Pressure. Like the boiling point, the freezing point of water can change with pressure. For example, at higher pressures, water may freeze at a temperature slightly lower than 0°C. However, under normal conditions (standard atmospheric pressure), water freezes at 0°C.