Special Properties of Water

Front

What unique property of water allows fish and aquatic plants to survive in cold winters?

Back

Water expands and becomes less dense when it freezes.

Front

What process allows white carnations to change color when placed in dyed water?

Back

Cohesion and adhesion of water molecules.

Front

Why is water considered a good solvent for many ionic compounds?

Back

Water is a polar molecule.

Front

What might happen if water had a low specific heat?

Back

Organisms that are sensitive to changes in temperature would die.

Front

What type of bond allows water to have high surface tension?

Back

Hydrogen bond.

Front

What is the definition of cohesion in relation to water?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding.

Front

What is the definition of adhesion in relation to water?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances.

Front

What is specific heat?

Back

Specific heat is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit aquatic life?

Back

It helps maintain stable temperatures in aquatic environments.

Front

What is the significance of water being a polar molecule?

Back

It allows water to dissolve many substances, making it a good solvent.