Story perspectives

Scientists Uncover Unique Premelting State of Water

10/12/2025

41 6

Summary

Story summary

Scientists in Japan report a premelting state of heavy water confined in nanoscale spaces.
The premelting state describes water acting as both solid and liquid simultaneously due to unique molecular interactions.
Researchers from the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science identify ice XXI, a metastable phase formed under extreme pressure.
Both studies highlight water's complexity with potential implications for energy storage and understanding icy moons.

1 of 1

Story summary

Scientists in Japan report a premelting state of heavy water confined in nanoscale spaces.
The premelting state describes water acting as both solid and liquid simultaneously due to unique molecular interactions.
Researchers from the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science identify ice XXI, a metastable phase formed under extreme pressure.
Both studies highlight water's complexity with potential implications for energy storage and understanding icy moons.