Properties of Water

Front

What is cohesion?

Back

Cohesion is the tendency of molecules of the same kind to stick to one another.

Front

Why is water considered a universal solvent?

Back

Water is considered a universal solvent because it can dissolve most substances.

Front

What is a polar molecule?

Back

A polar molecule is a molecule in which opposite ends have opposite electric charges.

Front

Why is water polar?

Back

Water is polar because the unequal sharing of electrons gives the water molecule a slight negative charge near its oxygen atom and a slight positive charge near its hydrogen atoms.

Front

What are hydrogen bonds?

Back

Hydrogen bonds are attractions between water molecules.

Front

What is adhesion?

Back

Adhesion is the tendency of different kinds of molecules to stick to one another.

Front

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

Back

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

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.

Front

How does water's density change when it freezes?

Back

Water expands and becomes less dense when it freezes, allowing ice to float on liquid water.

Front

What role do hydrogen bonds play in water's properties?

Back

Hydrogen bonds contribute to water's high boiling point, high specific heat, and surface tension.