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General Science • PhysicsMedium

At what temperature does pure water attain its maximum density under standard atmospheric pressure?

A. 0 °C
B. 4 °C✓ Correct Answer
C. 100 °C
D. -4 °C

💡 Solution & Explanation

Pure water exhibits an anomalous expansion behavior between 0 degrees Celsius and 4 degrees Celsius, contracting as it warms up and thereby attaining maximum density at 4 degrees Celsius. At 0 degrees Celsius, water begins to freeze into a less dense crystalline structure, which causes ice to float on liquid water. Temperatures like 100 degrees Celsius mark the boiling point of water under standard atmospheric conditions.

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