Water's Structure and Properties

Hydrogen Bond

Forms between the oxygen atom of one water molecule and the hydrogen atom of another water molecule;

Covalent Bond

Forms between oxygen and hydrogen within a water molecule;

Polar

positive end and a negative end; like a magnet

Oxygen's charge in a water molecule

negative

Hydrogen's charge in a water molecule

positive

Cohesion

Water molecules stick to other water molecules (due to polarity)

Adhesion

Water molecules stick to other substances/surfaces

Surface Tension

The water molecules at the surface are strongly stuck to one another (cohesion)

Capillary Action

Water travels up tubes against gravity

High Specific Heat

Water holds on to heat for a long time- even after the heat source is gone

High Heat of Vaporization

Water absorbs a lot of heat energy before it changes from liquid to gas

Ice is less dense than water

Water expands and becomes less dense. This is why ice floats in liquid water.