Properties of Water

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to travel up through narrow spaces, such as the roots of a tree, due to the combined effects of adhesion (water sticking to other surfaces) and cohesion (water molecules sticking to each other).

Front

What is a polar molecule?

Back

A polar molecule is a molecule that has electrically charged areas, meaning it has a positive end and a negative end, like water (H2O).

Front

Which substances are least likely to dissolve in water?

Back

Nonpolar fats and oils are least likely to dissolve in water because they do not interact well with polar molecules.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Water is made up of two elements: hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O).

Front

What causes surface tension in water?

Back

Surface tension in water is caused by hydrogen bonds between water molecules, which create stronger cohesion at the surface.

Front

What is the significance of hydrogen bonds in water?

Back

Hydrogen bonds are responsible for many of water's unique properties, including its high specific heat, surface tension, and ability to dissolve many substances.

Front

How does water's specific heat capacity affect the environment?

Back

Water's high specific heat capacity allows it to absorb and store large amounts of heat, helping to regulate temperatures in the environment and maintain stable climates.

Front

What is the difference between adhesion and cohesion?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances, while cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves.

Front

Why is water considered a universal solvent?

Back

Water is considered a universal solvent because it can dissolve a wide variety of substances due to its polar nature.

Front

What is the role of water in biological systems?

Back

Water plays a crucial role in biological systems as a solvent, a temperature regulator, and a medium for chemical reactions.