Water properties

Front

What is a polar molecule?

Back

A molecule in which opposite ends have opposite electric charges, such as water.

Front

What term describes the attraction of water to other substances?

Back

Adhesion.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats because it is less dense than liquid water.

Front

Which end of the water molecule has a slightly positive charge?

Back

The hydrogen end.

Front

What is the reason that ice floats on liquid water?

Back

Water's solid form (ice) is less dense than its liquid form.

Front

What is cohesion in the context of water?

Back

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

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the property of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force, due to cohesive forces between liquid molecules.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, due to adhesion and cohesion.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of water?

Back

As water cools, it becomes denser until it reaches 4°C; below this temperature, it becomes less dense.

Front

What is the significance of water's high specific heat?

Back

Water's high specific heat allows it to absorb and release large amounts of heat without significant temperature changes, stabilizing climates.