What happens to the freezing point of water when salt is added?

When salt is added to water, the freezing point is lowered. This phenomenon occurs due to a process called freezing point depression. When salt dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium and chloride ions. These ions interfere with the ability of the water molecules to come together and form a solid structure (ice). As a result, a lower temperature is required for the water to freeze compared to pure water. This principle is commonly applied in various real-life situations, such as using salt to de-ice roads in winter or in making homemade ice cream, where a salt-ice mixture is used to lower the temperature needed for freezing the ice cream mixture.