Properties of Water Review

Front

What is cohesion in water?

Back

Cohesion is the property of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding, which allows for phenomena like surface tension.

Front

What is adhesion in water?

Back

Adhesion is the property of water molecules to stick to other substances, which helps in processes like capillary action.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces against gravity, due to the combination of cohesion and adhesion.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water, which is why it floats, allowing aquatic life to survive beneath the ice.

Front

What does it mean for water to be a polar molecule?

Back

Water has a slightly positive end (hydrogen) and a slightly negative end (oxygen), making it polar and allowing it to dissolve many substances.

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the elastic tendency of water's surface, caused by cohesive forces between water molecules, allowing objects to float.

Front

How does water's polarity affect its properties?

Back

Water's polarity allows it to dissolve ionic and polar substances, making it an excellent solvent.

Front

What is specific heat?

Back

Specific heat is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance; water has a high specific heat, which helps regulate temperature.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit the environment?

Back

Water's high specific heat helps stabilize temperatures in aquatic environments, protecting ecosystems from extreme temperature changes.

Front

What role does water play in plant transport?

Back

Water's cohesion and adhesion allow it to move through plants via capillary action, transporting nutrients from roots to leaves.