Properties of Water

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the movement of water within the spaces of a porous material due to the forces of adhesion, cohesion, and surface tension.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats on water because the molecules are more tightly packed in water's liquid state than in its solid state, making ice less dense than liquid water.

Front

What is the charge of the oxygen atom in a water molecule?

Back

The oxygen atom in a water molecule has a slightly negative charge.

Front

What is the charge of the hydrogen atoms in a water molecule?

Back

The hydrogen atoms in a water molecule have a slightly positive charge.

Front

What is the significance of water's polarity?

Back

Water's polarity allows it to form hydrogen bonds, which are crucial for many of its unique properties, including high surface tension and solvent capabilities.

Front

What is adhesion in the context of water?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances, which helps water to climb up surfaces.

Front

What is cohesion in the context of water?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves, which contributes to water's surface tension.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of water?

Back

As water cools, it becomes denser until it reaches 4 degrees Celsius; below this temperature, water expands and becomes less dense, causing ice to float.

Front

What role does surface tension play in water behavior?

Back

Surface tension allows water to resist external force, enabling small objects to float and insects to walk on its surface.

Front

What is the relationship between water's specific heat and climate?

Back

Water's high specific heat allows it to absorb and store large amounts of heat, moderating climate and temperature changes.