- Water is a polar molecule because it has an uneven distribution of electric charge, with a slightly positive end (hydrogen) and a slightly negative end (oxygen).
- Hydrogen bonds are weak, temporary attractions between the positive hydrogen end of one water molecule and the negative oxygen end of another.
- Cohesion is the tendency of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding, which contributes to properties like surface tension and high specific heat.
- Surface tension is the result of cohesive forces at the surface of water, where molecules are pulled inward and sideways, creating a "skin" that allows small insects to walk on water.
- Adhesion is the tendency of water to stick to other substances, such as glass or plant cell walls, which helps form a meniscus and enables capillary action.
- Capillary action is the upward movement of water in narrow spaces, caused by the combined forces of adhesion to the container walls and cohesion among water molecules.
- Water is called the universal solvent because its polarity allows it to dissolve many polar and ionic substances, like salt and sugar, but not nonpolar substances like oil.
- Specific heat is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C; water’s high specific heat (4,184 J/kg·°C) means it heats and cools slowly, helping to stabilize temperatures in ecosystems and organisms.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of properties of water worksheet answer key.
