Ice is the solid form of water, created when water is cooled to its freezing point (0°C or 32°F). It's a crystalline structure where water molecules are held together by hydrogen bonds, forming a rigid lattice. This structure makes ice less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float. Ice plays a crucial role in Earth's climate, reflecting sunlight and moderating temperatures. It also shapes landscapes through glacial erosion and provides habitats for various organisms in polar regions.