Properties of Water

Front

What is the independent variable in an experiment?

Back

The independent variable is the factor that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats on water because, as water freezes, the molecules move farther apart, resulting in a decrease in density.

Front

What does it mean for a molecule to be polar?

Back

A polar molecule has a distribution of electrical charge that leads to a positive end and a negative end, meaning the charges are on opposite sides of the molecule.

Front

How does increasing temperature affect the rate of solute dissolution?

Back

Increasing the temperature generally increases the rate of solute dissolution because the molecules move faster and interact more frequently.

Front

Why can water striders walk on the surface of water?

Back

Water striders can walk on water because they are light enough not to break the hydrogen bonds that hold water molecules together.

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 surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the elastic tendency of a fluid surface that makes it acquire the least surface area possible, allowing small objects to float.

Front

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

Back

Water's high specific heat means it can absorb a lot of heat without a significant change in temperature, which helps regulate climate and body temperature.

Front

What is the pH scale, and where does pure water fall on it?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, with pure water having a neutral pH of 7.