* Freezing Point Depression: When you dissolve a solute (like salt) in a solvent (like water), it disrupts the formation of the regular crystal structure that water molecules form when freezing. This disruption makes it harder for the water to solidify at the usual freezing point.
* Colligative Property: Freezing point depression is a colligative property, meaning it depends on the concentration of the solute, not its specific identity. The more salt you dissolve, the lower the freezing point will be.
In simpler terms: Salt interferes with the process of water molecules locking together into ice, so the water needs to be colder to freeze.
