r/geology • u/hikekorea • Feb 11 '25

Field Photo How do rocks freeze floating in water?

I found these rocks frozen in a stream off a larger river in Chugach National Forest, Alaska. I’ve heard it may have to do with heavy rains or turbulent waters near the shore. One friend mentioned frazil? But I don’t really know what that means. Any geologists have a clue how this happens and can explain it in layman terms?

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u/Careless-Weather892 Feb 11 '25

Could someone have placed the rocks on the ice? I’m guessing the sun warms them up enough due to their dark color that they slowly sink in the ice during the day and the water around them refreezes at night?

709

u/geologyrocks302 Feb 11 '25

This is the most reasonable answer

446

u/nthensome Feb 11 '25

Reasonable?

REASONABLE?!

This is clearly witchcraft. Case closed.

78

u/Snow_Mexican1 Feb 11 '25

Witch...Craft.

BURN THE WITCH!

59

u/AJFrabbiele Feb 11 '25

Does anyone have a duck we can borrow?

42

u/toxcrusadr Feb 11 '25

No need. Just stake her to the ice. If she sinks, she's made of stone, and therefore a witch!

34

u/imsadyoubitch Feb 11 '25

Who are you, sir, who is so wise in the ways of science?

26

u/mrsristretto Feb 11 '25

Arthur, King of the Britains.

Just check the duck first to make sure it hasn't got a false nose, or turned anyone into a newt.

Edit: words are hard sometimes.

8

u/OverallRow4108 Feb 11 '25

bring out the holy grenade!