Biology: Water Chemistry

Mixture

a substance composed of two or more elements or compounds that are not chemically combined

Suspension

A mixture that has undissolved particles floating in it (ex. blood)

Solution

A mixture that is uniform throughout

Solvent

A substance that dissolves other substances

Solute

The substance that is dissolved

Acid

Chemicals that release extra hydrogen ions into a solution

Base

Chemicals that release extra hydroxide ions into a solution

Buffers

Weak acids or bases that react with strong acids or bases to prevent sharp changes in pH

Yes

Is water a good solvent?

form ions

A very small number of molecules in any volume of water will….

highly reactive

Large amounts of hydrogen ions or hydroxide ions are….

corrosive and damaging at high concentration

High reactivity in acids and bases are…..

Living cells

Where are different types of weak acids and bases found?

It is a polar molecule

Why is water a good solvent?

The part of the molecule on the oxygen is slightly negative while the hydrogens are both slightly positive

Why is water considered polar?