Which of the following does not contribute to ice strength?

• A. Thickness
• B. Wind
• C. Water presence
• D. Anchor

Answer: (D)

Ice strength is about the ice’s ability to carry loads, which depends on material and environmental conditions. Thicker ice is generally stronger because there’s more material to resist bending and fracture. Wind adds dynamic loads through gusts and waves, creating stresses that can crack or bend the ice. Water presence—whether unfrozen gaps, slush, or brine pockets—weakens ice by reducing its rigidity and increasing the likelihood of crack propagation. An anchor, however, is an external device used to attach to the ice; it does not increase the ice’s inherent strength. It may alter how loads are applied locally, but it doesn’t make the ice itself stronger.