Understanding Water's Unique Properties

Front

High specific heat of water

Back

Water absorbs heat without a large temperature change. It takes a lot of energy to change the temp of water. This is a beneficial property of water because it helps bodies of water maintain stable temperatures.

Front

Water as a universal solvent

Back

Dissolves many substances due to polarity. Water will dissolve almost any other polar substance. (Like dissolves like)

Front

Density of ice vs water

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water.

This causes water to expand when it freezes and then floats. Think of the ice in your glass of iced tea.

Front

Cohesion in water

Back

Water molecules stick to each other. Water sticks to water! Remember the droplets of water collecting on the penny. That was an example of water sticking to water.

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Adhesion in water

Back

Water molecules stick to other surfaces. Remember that water will stick to a paper towel.

Front

Surface tension of water

Back

Water's surface resists external force. It causes the water molecules to act like a stretched film over the surface of the water. Remember the video of the lizard running on water.

Front

Capillary action

Back

Water moves up narrow tubes against gravity - due to cohesion and adhesion. Think about water traveling up a plant from the roots to the stem and leaves.

Front

High Heat of Vaporization

Back

Water absorbs heat when it evaporates which creates a cooling sensation that helps maintain and stabilize our body temperature.