Flashcard Properties of Water, Acids, Bases, & pH

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being neutral.

Front

What is an acid?

Back

An acid is a substance that donates protons (H+) in a solution, typically having a pH less than 7.

Front

What is a base?

Back

A base is a substance that accepts protons (H+) or donates hydroxide ions (OH-) in a solution, typically having a pH greater than 7.

Front

What is neutral pH?

Back

A neutral pH is 7, indicating a balance between acids and bases in a solution.

Front

What does it mean for a substance to be polar?

Back

A polar substance has a distribution of electrical charge that leads to a slight positive charge on one end and a slight negative charge on the other, like water.

Front

What is cohesion in water?

Back

Cohesion is the property of water that allows molecules to stick to each other, contributing to surface tension.

Front

What is adhesion in water?

Back

Adhesion is the property of water that allows it to stick to other substances, which helps in processes like capillary action.

Front

Why is water known as the universal solvent?

Back

Water is called the universal solvent because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid, due to its polar nature.

Front

What happens to water when it freezes?

Back

When water freezes, it expands and becomes less dense, which is why ice floats on water.

Front

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

Back

Water's high specific heat means it can absorb a lot of heat without a significant change in temperature, helping to regulate climate and maintain stable environments.