ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Ice road

An ice road is a special kind of road that is made on top of a frozen body of water, like a river or a lake, during winter seasons. Just like a regular road, it allows people to travel from one place to another, but instead of driving on the ground, people drive on top of ice. Ice roads are often built in remote areas where there are no traditional roads or it's very difficult to build them, so people rely on ice roads to transport things like goods, supplies, or equipment.

To make an ice road, water needs to freeze at a certain temperature of below zero degrees Celsius. When the temperature is cold enough, the ice is thick and strong enough to support the weight of vehicles, including trucks and cars. However, it’s important to note that the ice must be thick enough to avoid cracking or breaking while cars are driving on it. Engineers and experts observe and test the ice regularly to make sure it’s safe for people to drive on.

Driving on an ice road is different from driving on a regular road because the ice can be bumpy, slippery, and sometimes even cracked. Because of this, it can be more dangerous than regular roads, especially during thaws where ice can start to melt and become unstable. Drivers need to be careful and often drive slower than usual. Even with precautions, accidents can still happen, so it’s crucial to pay close attention to instructions and signs.

In summary, an ice road is a road built on top of a frozen body of water during the winter to provide transportation in remote areas. To make an ice road, the water must freeze at a temperature below zero, and the ice needs to be thick and strong enough to support the weight of cars and trucks. Driving on an ice road can be more dangerous than on regular roads, so drivers need to be extra careful on these types of roads.