Importance of Water in Life

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the importance of water in life, including its properties, role in pH stability, and distinction between hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances.

Why is water important to life?

Water is essential for life because it is necessary for our existence, the origin of life, and possesses special properties that make it critical for all forms of life.

What are the special properties of water that make it essential for life?

Water establishes hydrophilic and hydrophobic relationships, easily dissolves polar molecules, and has high heat capacity and heat of vaporization.

What does hydrophilic mean?

Hydrophilic means water-loving; these substances easily dissolve in water and are typically polar molecules or ions.

What does hydrophobic mean?

Hydrophobic means water-fearing; these substances do not dissolve in water and are usually nonpolar molecules.

What is the difference between cohesion and adhesion in water?

Cohesion is the tendency of water molecules to stay together, creating surface tension, while adhesion is the tendency of water molecules to move towards strongly charged substances.

What is a solution?

A solution is formed when a solute is dissolved in a solvent.

What are spheres of hydration?

Spheres of hydration, or 'water shells,' are formed around solute particles, driven by the electronegativity difference of water.

Why does ice float on water?

Ice floats on water because solid water is less dense than liquid water; its molecules are more spread out.

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

Water's high heat capacity allows it to stabilize temperatures, which is useful for warm-blooded animals.

What is the pH of pure water?

The pH of pure water is 7, which is neutral.

How do acids and bases affect pH?

Acids yield H+ ions, reducing pH, while bases produce OH- ions, increasing pH.

What is the function of buffers in biological systems?

Buffers are weak acids and their associated bases that absorb or donate H+ ions to maintain stable pH levels in biological systems.