Understanding the Chemistry of Life

What characteristic of water allows it to dissolve many substances, making it an excellent solvent?

• Its high specific heat capacity

• Its polar nature

• Its transparency

• Its cohesive properties

Why is water's high specific heat capacity beneficial for aquatic environments?

• It allows water to freeze easily.

• It increases water's transparency.

• It makes water a good solvent.

• It helps maintain a stable temperature.

How does water's high latent heat of vaporization assist in cooling organisms?

• By increasing the temperature of the skin

• By absorbing a lot of heat during evaporation

• By requiring less energy to evaporate

• By allowing water to freeze quickly

What property of water enables pond skaters to walk on its surface?

• Its density

• Its transparency

• Its cohesive nature

• Its high specific heat capacity

Why does ice float on water, and how does this benefit aquatic life?

• Ice is denser than water, providing insulation.

• Ice is cohesive, forming a solid layer.

• Ice is less dense than water, allowing life to exist below.

• Ice is transparent, allowing light to pass through.