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First Direct Observation: Scientists have directly observed Plastic Ice VII for the first time, a unique water phase previously only theorized.
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Hybrid Properties: Plastic Ice VII exhibits both solid and liquid characteristics. Water molecules are fixed in a cubic crystal lattice (solid-like) but can rotate freely (liquid-like).
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Plasticity: The “plastic” refers to its ability to deform under pressure like a malleable substance, not to synthetic materials.
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Discovery Method: The discovery was made using neutron beam technology at the Institut Laue-Langevin, subjecting water to extreme pressures (up to 60,000 bars) and temperatures (326°C).
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Conditions for Formation: Requires extreme pressure (above 30,000 bars) and high temperature (above 177°C)
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Significance: Plastic Ice VII is believed to exist deep within icy planets and moons (e.g., Neptune, Europa, Titan).
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Difference from other ices: Unlike common ice (Ice Ih) with a hexagonal structure, and Ice VII with a dense cubic structure, Plastic Ice VII has mobile water molecules within a fixed lattice.
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Implications: Understanding Plastic Ice VII is crucial for planetary science, impacting theories about water distribution and potential habitability on icy celestial bodies.
