Final answer:
Ice is less dense than water due to the orientation of hydrogen bonds in its structure. This property allows ice to float and provide insulation for organisms in cold climates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Water is unique in that its solid form, ice, is less dense than its liquid form. This is because when water molecules freeze, the hydrogen bonds between them form a rigid, lattice-like structure. As a result, the molecules are pushed farther apart, making ice less dense than liquid water.
This property is essential for the survival of organisms in cold climates. When a body of water freezes, the layer of ice that forms on the surface acts as an insulating barrier. This allows the liquid water underneath to remain unfrozen, providing a habitat for fish and other organisms.
Ice's lower density compared to liquid water is due to the way its hydrogen bonds orient as they freeze. The water molecules in ice are spaced farther apart, resulting in a less dense solid.