Properties of Water

Front

What is the chemical formula for water?

Back

H2O

Front

Which part of a water molecule has a partial positive charge?

Back

The two hydrogen (H) atoms

Front

What property of water allows it to dissolve many substances?

Back

Solvent property

Front

What is the term for the attraction between water molecules?

Back

Cohesion

Front

What is the term for the attraction between water molecules and other substances?

Back

Adhesion

Front

What is a polar molecule?

Back

A molecule with a distribution of electrical charge leading to partially positive and negative areas.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit the environment?

Back

It helps regulate temperature in bodies of water and climates.

Front

What is surface tension in water?

Back

The cohesive force at the surface of water that makes it behave like a stretched elastic membrane.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water due to its molecular structure.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

The ability of water to flow in narrow spaces against gravity, due to adhesion and cohesion.