Properties of Water

Front

What is the reason ice floats on liquid water?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water.

Front

What is the term for the tightness across the surface of water that allows objects to float?

Back

Surface tension.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

As water freezes, it expands and its density decreases.

Front

What property of water allows Alka-Seltzer tablets to dissolve?

Back

Universal solvent.

Front

What is the term for water's attraction to other substances?

Back

Adhesion.

Front

What is cohesion in the context of water?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding.

Front

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

Back

It allows water to absorb a lot of heat without a significant change in temperature, stabilizing climates.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces against gravity, due to adhesion and cohesion.

Front

What is the effect of water's polarity on its properties?

Back

Water's polarity leads to hydrogen bonding, which affects its boiling point, melting point, and solvent capabilities.

Front

How does water's expansion upon freezing benefit aquatic life?

Back

It insulates the water below, allowing aquatic life to survive in cold temperatures.