CHEMISTRY OF SALT ON ROADSBy Jackson Mitchell

History of Road salt First used as an experiment in 1938 Used nationwide by the winter of 1941-

1942 Road salt is not purified like table salt

although both are same molecule

Common Structure for Salt Storage

Freezing Point Depression Colligative property of water Lowers freezing point to about 15

degrees F. Solute dissolves in the water which

speeds up the water molecules, causing freezing point to decrease.

Common Substitute Sand (Silicon dioxide) Used on roads mainly to increase tire

traction. Used more often when temperature drops

below 15 degrees F.

Negative Effects The road salt reacts with water, oxygen,

and the metal on cars to create an increase in corrosion.

Corrosion is the gradual destruction of materials.

Implications This topic can affect just about anyone,

especially during Holiday travel in the winter.

Many lives have likely been saved due to the freezing point depression that occurs.

Without road salt roads would be extremely dangerous during winter storms.

Works CitedPictures

Slide 1-http://blog.nwautos.com/2010/01/hold_the_salt_how_to_fight_winter_car_corrosion_no_matter_your_budget.html

Slide 2- http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2508731/Salt-earth-The-5-000-year-old-mines-inside-caves-tunnels-Turkey-use-today.html

Slide 3- http://www.portlanddailyphoto.com/2013_12_01_archive.html

Slide 5- https://sg.entertainment.yahoo.com/photos/photo-of-the-day-slideshow-slideshow/montgomery-city-workers-spread-sand-icy-roads-downtown-photo-012524668.html

Slide 6- http://ztechmichigan.com/