What can't be burned in fire, nor drowned in water?

Why this works

At first glance, this riddle seems to challenge the very laws of nature, inviting us to ponder the impossible. However, the clever twist lies in the properties of ice itself, which plays a delightful game with our expectations. You see, ice cannot be burned because it simply transforms into water when exposed to heat—it melts rather than combusts, defying the flames. Similarly, when placed in water, ice doesn’t drown; instead, it floats, maintaining its form until it reaches its melting point. This riddle cleverly uses the physical characteristics of ice to confound our intuitive understanding of fire and water, leading to that satisfying “aha moment” when we realize that the answer is not about what is indestructible, but rather about how ice interacts with these elements. It’s a reminder of the fluidity of states of matter; ice is just a transient form of water, demonstrating the beautiful dance of nature's cycles. As a fun fact, ice has been a part of human culture for centuries, from ancient methods of harvesting ice in winter for summer cooling to the modern-day phenomenon of ice sculptures, showcasing not only its beauty but also its impermanence. So next time you enjoy a cool drink on a hot day, take a moment to appreciate the magic of ice—an element that melts away while leaving us refreshed!