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The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason

The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason?

(a)

Ice is a bad conductor of heat.

(b)

Since the surface of the lake is at the same temperature as the air, no heat is lost.

(c)

The density of water is maximum at 4°c.

(d)

None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given is correct.

Answer:

(c)

Core Books/NCERT

Explanation

The density of water is highest at 4°C, which allows ice to form on top while the water below remains liquid. The ice layer insulates the water underneath.