Physicists Discover New Complex Phases of Ice, Simulations Suggest Thousands More Exist
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By Shalma Wegsman April 27, 2026
Hot, fresh, and worth queueing round the block for.
Summary
Scientists have discovered over 20 phases of ice since 1900, many formed under extreme conditions, including hot ice and electrically conductive ice. Computer simulations have predicted tens of thousands of possible ice forms. While exotic ice is uncommon on Earth, it may exist in off-Earth environments such as comet tails and other cold celestial bodies. The article explores the ongoing discovery of complex ice phases and the potential for many more to be found through simulation and experimentation.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledIce comes in more forms than what you'll find in a freezer or a glacier.
Since 1900, scientists have observed more than 20 phases of ice, many of them shaped under extreme conditions.
Over the past decade, computer simulations have predicted tens of thousands of possible forms of ice.
Though uncommon on our planet, exotic ice may exist in off-Earth environments, from cold and amorphous comet tails.
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