Properties of Water Review

Front

What is cohesion in water?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding, which causes them to stick together.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats because, as water freezes, its molecules move farther apart, decreasing its density compared to liquid water.

Front

What property of water allows it to dissolve many substances?

Back

Water is a polar molecule, which means it has a positive and a negative end, allowing it to interact with and dissolve various ionic and polar substances.

Front

What are hydrogen bonds?

Back

Hydrogen bonds are weak attractions between the hydrogen atom of one water molecule and the oxygen atom of another, crucial for water's unique properties.

Front

What is adhesion in water?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances, allowing water to climb up plant roots and stems.

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.

Front

How does water's density change when it freezes?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of water in biological systems?

Back

Water is essential for life; it acts as a solvent, helps regulate temperature, and is involved in biochemical reactions.

Front

What is surface tension in water?

Back

Surface tension is the cohesive force at the surface of water that makes it behave like a stretched elastic membrane, allowing small objects to float.

Front

How does water's polarity affect its interactions with other molecules?

Back

Water's polarity allows it to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules, enhancing its ability to dissolve substances.