Science & technology | Deep freezeScientists are getting to grips with iceClimate change is making water freeze in unexpected waysPhotograph: Science Photo Library Apr 16th 2025Jack Frost is a tricky adversary. As the mercury falls, water’s behaviour becomes erratic, leading to ice and snow with physical properties that can vary enormously depending on environmental factors such as temperature and moisture. That can complicate tasks as varied as developing new ice-repellent materials and predicting the likelihood of an avalanche. New research is suggesting ways to put this slippery field on firmer foundations.Explore moreThis article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “Deep freeze”From the April 19th 2025 editionDiscover stories from this section and more in the list of contents⇒Explore the editionReuse this content