Basic Water Properties Flashcard

Front

What property of water allows insects to walk on its surface?

Back

Surface tension is the property of water that allows insects to walk on its surface due to the cohesive forces between water molecules.

Front

What is the term for the curved surface of water in a glass?

Back

Meniscus is the term used to describe the curved surface of water in a glass, which occurs due to surface tension.

Front

What makes water a good solvent?

Back

Water's polarity makes it a good solvent, allowing it to dissolve many substances.

Front

Which property of water helps plants transport nutrients from roots to leaves?

Back

Adhesion helps plants transport nutrients from roots to leaves by allowing water to stick to the walls of plant vessels.

Front

What is the shape of a water molecule?

Back

The shape of a water molecule is bent, due to the angle between the hydrogen atoms.

Front

Define density in the context of water.

Back

Density is the mass of water per unit volume, which affects how objects float or sink in water.

Front

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Back

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

Front

Explain adhesion in the context of water.

Back

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

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.

Front

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

Back

Water's polarity allows it to interact with other polar molecules and ions, making it an effective solvent.