AP Bio Insta-Review Topic 1.1*: Structure of Water & H Bonding

Front

What is the structure of a water molecule?

Back

A water molecule (H2O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom, forming a bent shape due to the angle of the bonds.

Front

What is hydrogen bonding in water?

Back

Hydrogen bonding is the attraction between the partially positive hydrogen atoms of one water molecule and the partially negative oxygen atoms of another, leading to unique properties of water.

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What is specific heat?

Back

Specific heat is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by 1 degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat, allowing it to stabilize temperatures.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit aquatic life?

Back

Water's high specific heat helps maintain stable temperatures in aquatic environments, providing a stable habitat for aquatic organisms.

Front

What does it mean that water is less dense as a solid?

Back

Water is less dense as a solid (ice) than as a liquid, allowing ice to float on water, which insulates the water below and protects aquatic life in winter.

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What is cohesion in water?

Back

Cohesion is the property of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding, which contributes to surface tension.

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What is adhesion in water?

Back

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

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What is evaporative cooling?

Back

Evaporative cooling is the process where water absorbs heat when it evaporates, cooling the surface it leaves, which is important for temperature regulation in organisms.

Front

How does water's surface tension affect living organisms?

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Surface tension allows small organisms, like water striders, to walk on water and helps in the formation of droplets.

Front

What role does water play in temperature regulation for organisms?

Back

Water's high specific heat and evaporative cooling properties help organisms regulate their body temperature effectively.