Bio Unit 4 Part 1: Water

Front

What is adhesion?

Back

Adhesion is the tendency of dissimilar particles or surfaces to cling to one another. In water, it refers to the attraction between water molecules and other substances.

Front

What property of water allows it to be a versatile solvent?

Back

Polarity. Water's polar nature allows it to dissolve many ionic and polar substances.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Hydrogen and oxygen.

Front

Why do large bodies of water not quickly fluctuate in temperature?

Back

Water has a high heat capacity, which allows it to absorb and retain heat without significant changes in temperature.

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the tightness across the surface of water that enables insects to walk on it, caused by the cohesive forces between water molecules.

Front

What is the significance of water being called the 'universal solvent'?

Back

It means that water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid, which is crucial for biological processes.

Front

Define capillary action.

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, due to adhesion and cohesion.

Front

What is the effect of water's high heat capacity on climate?

Back

It helps moderate temperatures in coastal areas, preventing extreme temperature fluctuations.

Front

Explain the concept of polarity in water molecules.

Back

Polarity in water molecules arises from the unequal sharing of electrons between hydrogen and oxygen, creating a partial positive charge on hydrogen and a partial negative charge on oxygen.

Front

What role does water play in biological systems?

Back

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