Underwater icicles!!!

 Tonight I learned that when ocean saltwater freezes into sea ice in the Arctic, it releases really salty brine. I brined chicken for dinner the other night!  It is simply water with salt added that you soak food in. This same brine, only WAY more salty, is squeezed out when ocean water forms ice. This brine is heavier than the normal ocean water or seawater, and sinks. It forms underwater water falls as it rolls down slopes. It eventually freezes anything that touches it and forms what are known as "brinicles". These are simply icicles formed with briny water. They are so cold, they actually freeze small sea animals if they bump against them! This is why they are sometimes known as the "icy fingers of death". The Arctic is fascinating! Learn more by watching the video below or clicking the image! 


 

 


 

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