Question

as shown in the diagram, when environmental temperatures drop below freezing, a layer of ice typically forms on the surface of bodies of freshwater such as lakes and rivers. which of the following best describes how the structure of ice benefits the organisms that live in the water below? a the water molecules in ice are closer together than those in liquid water, so the ice prevents the passage of air to the water, maintaining a constant gas mixture in the water. b the water molecules in ice are closer together than those in liquid water, so the ice forms a barrier that protects the organisms in the water from the freezing air temperatures. c the water molecules in ice are farther apart than those in liquid water, so the ice floats, maintaining the warmer, denser water at the lake bottom. d the water molecules in ice are farther apart than those in liquid water, so the ice floats, preventing the escape of gases from the liquid water.

Explanation:

Water molecules in ice are more spread - out (less dense) than in liquid water due to hydrogen - bonding patterns. This causes ice to float. The floating ice insulates the water below, maintaining warmer and denser water at the bottom of the lake or river, which is beneficial for aquatic organisms.

Answer:

C. The water molecules in ice are farther apart than those in liquid water, so the ice floats, maintaining the warmer, denser water at the lake bottom.