Properties of Water

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to the properties of water and its importance in biological systems, providing students with a comprehensive tool for exam preparation.

What are the key roles of water in biology?

Water regulates temperature, acts as a solvent, and is involved in chemical reactions.

Define 'solvent'.

A solvent is a substance, usually a liquid, that dissolves other substances.

What is the difference between acids and bases?

Acids release hydrogen ions (H+) in solution, while bases release hydroxide ions (OH-).

Why does water expand as it freezes?

Water expands as it freezes because the crystalline structure of ice increases the distance between water molecules.

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Cohesion is the strong attraction between the same water molecules, due to hydrogen bonding.

What is adhesion in relation to water?

Adhesion describes water’s tendency to form hydrogen bonds with substances other than water.

What is the role of water in chemical reactions?

Water is often directly involved in breaking down or building up molecules, serving as a common reactant or product.

What does the pH scale measure?

The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, indicating how acidic or basic the solution is.

Describe what buffers do in biological systems.

Buffers react with acids or bases to maintain pH levels within a particular range, crucial for cellular function.

How do human activities affect water quality?

Human activities, such as pollution and industrial waste, can negatively impact water quality and ecosystem stability.

What is ocean acidification?

Ocean acidification occurs when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, forming carbonic acid and lowering the pH of ocean water.

What are some effects of acid precipitation?

Acid precipitation lowers pH levels in both water and soil, which can harm organisms and disrupt ecosystems.

What does it mean for water to be a universal solvent?

It means water can dissolve a wide variety of solutes due to its polar nature.

How does water regulate temperature in organisms?

Water resists temperature changes due to its hydrogen bonding, helping maintain stable body temperatures.