Properties of Water

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to move up a thin tube or through porous materials against gravity, due to the combined effects of adhesion and cohesion.

Front

What is cohesion?

Back

Cohesion is the tendency of molecules of the same substance to stick together, which in water is due to hydrogen bonding.

Front

What is adhesion?

Back

Adhesion is the tendency of water molecules to stick to other substances, which helps water to climb up plant xylem.

Front

What causes water to move from the roots to the leaves of plants?

Back

Water moves from the roots to the leaves of plants primarily through capillary action, which pulls water molecules upward like a chain.

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the elastic-like force existing at the surface of a liquid, caused by the cohesive forces between liquid molecules.

Front

How do hydrogen bonds contribute to water's properties?

Back

Hydrogen bonds between water molecules create cohesion and surface tension, allowing insects like water striders to skate on water.

Front

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

Back

Water's polarity allows it to form hydrogen bonds, leading to unique properties such as high surface tension, cohesion, and adhesion.

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, helping to regulate climate and maintain stable environments.

Front

How does water's density change when it freezes?

Back

Water expands and becomes less dense when it freezes, which is why ice floats on liquid water.

Front

What is the difference between adhesion and cohesion?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between different substances, while cohesion is the attraction between molecules of the same substance.