Q
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Why does water both melt and freeze at 0 degrees Celsius? What determines whether something is melting or freezing?
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Step 1
I'll solve this problem by explaining the phase transition of water at 0°C and the underlying physical principles.

Step 2
: Understanding Phase Transitions

At 0°C (273.15 K), water exists in a unique equilibrium state between solid (ice) and liquid phases. This temperature is called the melting/freezing point, where both phases can coexist simultaneously.

Final Answer

At 0°C, water can both melt and freeze depending on heat transfer direction, representing a dynamic equilibrium where phase transition can occur in either direction with minimal energy input.