Why does ice melt salt?

Answer by  idiotjones (705)

Ice does not melt salt, but rather the opposite is true - salt melts ice. Salt acts as an impurity (solute) in the solvent of water. The pure crystal structure of ice is disrupted by the salt molecules and this weakens the structure. An increased surface area attracts more heat.

Answer by  sonicfoundation (2597)

Ice doesn't melt salt, but salt can melt ice. It does so by actually lowering the temperature at which water will freeze. By making water freeze at less than "freezing" temperature is remains in water form.

Answer by  LexiP (722)

Salts such as calcium chloride use freezing-point depression, which means that the salt lowers the temperature at which water freezes (normally 32 degrees Fahrenheit).

Answer by  MzVickie (186)

Ice doesn't melt salt. Salt helps melt ice. The combination of salt and ice creates salt water that has a lower freezing temperature of the ice. Water becomes a solid at 32 degrees. Salt water freeses at a lower temperature.