Water and Bonding Concepts

Flashcards covering key concepts related to water, bonding, and their properties.

Covalent Bond

A bond formed when two atoms share a pair of electrons.

Ionic Bond

A bond formed involving the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak bond that occurs between molecules containing a hydrogen atom bonded to an electronegative atom, such as oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine.

Solvent

A material capable of dissolving other substances (e.g., water).

Solute

The substance that is dissolved by a solvent (e.g., NaCl or CO₂).

Solution

The mixture made up of solutes and solvents.

Solubility

The ability of a solute to dissolve in a solvent.

Density

The mass of a substance per unit volume; determines whether substances will float or sink.

Thermohaline Circulation

Ocean circulation driven by differences in water density, controlled by temperature and salinity.

Kinetic Particle Theory

Theory stating that all matter is composed of particles that are in constant, random motion.

Evaporation

The process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, typically due to heat.

Salinity

A measure of the quantity of dissolved salts in ocean water, represented in parts per thousand (ppt).

pH Scale

A scale used to measure the concentration of hydronium ions (H+) in a solution, indicating its acidity or alkalinity.

Hydrogen Bonding Properties of Water

Unique properties of water resulting from hydrogen bonds, such as high boiling point and ability to act as a solvent.

Ice Density

Ice is less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float and serving as a thermal insulator for marine life.

Photosynthesis

The process by which producers convert sunlight into chemical energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct.