Water Properties

Front

What is the molecular structure of water?

Back

Water (H2O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom, forming a bent shape.

Front

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Back

Cohesion is the property of water that allows water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding.

Front

What is adhesion in relation to water?

Back

Adhesion is the property of water that allows it to stick to other substances, which is important for processes like capillary action.

Front

What is water's high heat capacity?

Back

Water can absorb a lot of heat before its temperature rises significantly, helping to regulate temperatures in the environment.

Front

Why is ice less dense than liquid water?

Back

Ice forms a crystalline structure that is less dense than liquid water, causing it to float.

Front

What is polarity in water molecules?

Back

Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side (hydrogens) and a partial negative charge on the other (oxygen), allowing it to dissolve many substances.

Front

What is the significance of water's solvent properties?

Back

Water is known as the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid, which is crucial for biological processes.

Front

How does water's high heat of vaporization benefit living organisms?

Back

It allows organisms to cool down through processes like sweating, as it takes a lot of energy to convert water from liquid to vapor.

Front

What role does water play in temperature regulation on Earth?

Back

Water's high heat capacity helps stabilize Earth's climate by absorbing and releasing heat slowly.

Front

What is surface tension in water?

Back

Surface tension is the cohesive force at the surface of water that allows it to resist external force, enabling small objects to float.