028|FLASHCARD: Properties of Water

Front

What is the term for the ability of water molecules to stick to each other?

Back

Cohesion

Front

What happens to water molecules on a smooth surface due to cohesion?

Back

They form beads.

Front

What property of water allows water molecules to stick easily to other water molecules?

Back

Cohesion

Front

What effect do algae blooms have on the amount of dissolved oxygen in an aquatic system?

Back

They decrease the amount of dissolved oxygen.

Front

What does density measure?

Back

The amount of mass in an object compared to its volume.

Front

What is adhesion in the context of water properties?

Back

The ability of water molecules to stick to other substances.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of water?

Back

As water cools, it becomes denser until it reaches 4°C, after which it becomes less dense.

Front

What is the significance of water's high specific heat?

Back

It helps regulate temperature in the environment.

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

The cohesive force between liquid molecules at the surface that makes it behave like a stretched elastic membrane.

Front

What is a polar molecule?

Back

A molecule with a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, like water.