frozen carbon dioxide, CO2.
what is dry ice
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2). It is called "dry ice" because it does not melt into a liquid like regular ice, but instead it goes through a process called sublimation, where it changes directly from a solid to a gas without becoming a liquid first.
To obtain dry ice, carbon dioxide gas is pressurized and cooled until it reaches a temperature of around -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109 degrees Fahrenheit). At this extremely low temperature, carbon dioxide transforms into a solid without passing through the liquid phase.
Dry ice is different from regular ice because it is very cold and does not leave behind any liquid residue when it sublimates. It is often used as a refrigerant because it can easily maintain low temperatures. Dry ice is commonly used in various applications, such as preserving food, transporting perishable items, creating special effects for entertainment purposes, and even in scientific experiments.
It's important to handle dry ice with care, as direct contact with skin can cause severe frostbite. It should always be used in well-ventilated areas due to the release of carbon dioxide gas as it sublimates. Proper storage and handling guidelines should be followed to ensure safety when working with dry ice.