Properties of Water

Front

What is the reason large bodies of water do not quickly fluctuate in temperature?

Back

Water has a high heat capacity.

Front

Why can small insects walk across the surface of calm water without breaking it?

Back

The insects are light enough so that they do not break the hydrogen bonds holding the water molecules together.

Front

What does it mean that water has an unusually high specific heat?

Back

A large amount of heat is required to raise the temperature of water.

Front

What explains why water molecules stick together?

Back

One side has a positive charge and the other side has a negative charge.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Hydrogen and oxygen.

Front

What is the term for the ability of water to dissolve many substances?

Back

Water is a versatile solvent.

Front

What property of water allows ice to float?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water.

Front

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Back

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

Front

What is adhesion in relation to water?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances.

Front

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

Back

It helps regulate temperature in organisms and environments.