Dry Ice chemical formula?
VerifiedAnswer: CO2
Explanation:
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide, which has the chemical formula CO2. This fascinating substance is called "dry ice" because it doesn't melt into a liquid like regular ice. Instead, it undergoes a process called sublimation, where it changes directly from solid to gas at -78.5°C (-109.3°F).
The CO2 formula tells us that each molecule of carbon dioxide contains one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. The structure forms a linear molecule where the carbon atom sits in the center with double bonds connecting it to each oxygen atom. This gives carbon dioxide its stable molecular structure.
When carbon dioxide gas is compressed and cooled to extremely low temperatures, it forms solid dry ice. At normal atmospheric pressure, CO2 cannot exist as a liquid - it only exists as either a gas or solid. This is why dry ice sublimates directly into carbon dioxide gas, making it an excellent cooling agent for shipping frozen foods and creating special effects.
Understanding that dry ice is simply solid CO2 helps explain its unique properties. Since it's made of the same molecules we breathe out, dry ice is non-toxic, though it should be handled carefully due to its extremely cold temperature and because it can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces as it sublimates back into gas form.
