IB Biology - A1.1 Water - Flashcard

Front

What allows small insects to walk on the surface of calm water?

Back

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

Front

Why is water considered a polar molecule?

Back

The unequal sharing of electrons gives the water molecule a slight negative charge near its oxygen atom and a slight positive charge near its hydrogen atoms.

Front

How do water molecules interact with ionic compounds like NaCl?

Back

Water molecules have partially charged ends that interact with ions.

Front

What type of molecules will dissolve in water?

Back

Molecules that are polar and hydrophilic.

Front

Why does sweat cool our bodies down?

Back

Water has a high heat of vaporization which means it absorbs a lot of body heat before it evaporates off the skin.

Front

What is hydrogen bonding in water?

Back

Hydrogen bonding is the attraction between the slightly positive hydrogen atoms of one water molecule and the slightly negative oxygen atoms of another.

Front

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

Back

Water's high specific heat allows it to absorb and retain heat, helping to regulate temperature in organisms and environments.

Front

What is cohesion in the context of water?

Back

Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules, which allows for surface tension.

Front

What is adhesion in the context of water?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of water as a solvent?

Back

Water is known as the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve many substances due to its polarity.