Properties of Water

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 the cohesive nature of its molecules.

Front

What is adhesion in the context of water?

Back

Adhesion is the tendency of water molecules to stick to other substances, which helps in processes like capillary action.

Front

What is cohesion in the context of water?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules, which allows them to stick together and is responsible for phenomena like surface tension.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats on water because it is less dense than liquid water; as water freezes, it expands and its density decreases.

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

What role does water's polarity play in its properties?

Back

Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances, making it an excellent solvent.

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

How does water's density change when it freezes?

Back

When water freezes, it forms a crystalline structure that is less dense than liquid water, causing ice to float.

Front

What is the relationship between adhesion and capillary action?

Back

Adhesion helps water molecules to stick to the walls of a narrow tube or plant vessels, while cohesion allows water molecules to pull each other along, facilitating capillary action.

Front

What is the role of water in plant transport?

Back

Water is essential for transporting nutrients and minerals from the roots to the leaves through processes like capillary action and transpiration.