Chemistry of Life & Water

Front

What makes water a universal solvent?

Back

It is a polar molecule that can form hydrogen bonds, allowing it to dissolve many substances.

Front

Why is it important that water has a high heat of vaporization and high specific heat capacity?

Back

If they were lower, water would change temperatures and evaporate much faster.

Front

Why does water move from the roots to the leaves of plants?

Back

Capillary action pulls the water molecules like a chain.

Front

When water rises up a thin straw or moves up a tree from the roots to the leaves, it is called _____________.

Back

Capillary Action.

Front

There are partial charges within a water molecule which cause water to have special properties. This makes water a ________ molecule.

Back

Polar.

Front

Define 'polar molecule'.

Back

A molecule with a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, leading to an uneven distribution of charge.

Front

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Back

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

Front

What is adhesion in relation to water?

Back

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

Front

Explain the concept of surface tension in water.

Back

Surface tension is the cohesive force at the surface of water that makes it behave like a stretched elastic membrane.

Front

What role does water's high specific heat play in the environment?

Back

It helps regulate temperature in the environment, preventing drastic temperature changes.