Structural evolution during water crystallization: Insights from ring analysis

► Water rings were investigated at the ice/water interface during crystallization. ► An increase in populations of 5 and 7-member rings is observed at the interface. ► Coupled rings such as 5-7, 5-6 and 6-7 play important roles at the interface. ► Ice basal face exhibits more irregular structural motifs relative to prism face. ► Coupled ring populations vary exponentially with temperature.