Properties of water

Front

What is the high heat capacity of water?

Back

Water can absorb a lot of heat before its temperature changes significantly, which helps regulate temperatures in the environment.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Hydrogen and oxygen.

Front

What is capillary action in water?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to move through narrow spaces, like in plant roots and stems, due to cohesion and adhesion.

Front

Why is water called the 'universal solvent'?

Back

Water is called the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve many substances due to its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds.

Front

What is the polarity of water?

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 side (oxygen).

Front

What is cohesion in water?

Back

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

Front

What is adhesion in water?

Back

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

Front

What happens to water when it freezes?

Back

When water freezes, it expands and becomes less dense, which is why ice floats on water.

Front

What is the significance of water's neutral charge?

Back

Water has a neutral charge, meaning it is neither acidic nor basic, which is important for maintaining pH balance in biological systems.

Front

How does water's high heat capacity affect climate?

Back

Water's high heat capacity helps moderate climate by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night.