Properties of Water

This set of flashcards covers the key vocabulary related to the properties of water and their significance in biological functions.

Polarity

The distribution of electrical charge around water molecules, resulting in partial positive and negative charges.

Hydrogen Bonding

A weak attraction between a hydrogen atom in one molecule and an electronegative atom in another molecule.

Cohesion

The attraction between molecules of the same substance, leading to phenomena like surface tension.

Adhesion

The attraction between molecules of different substances, causing water to stick to surfaces.

Capillary Action

The ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, due to adhesion and cohesion.

High Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of energy required to raise the temperature of water, reflecting its ability to resist temperature changes.

Solvent

A substance that dissolves other substances; water is known as a universal solvent due to its polarity.

Electrolytes

Ions that are essential for life, often found in ionic compounds that dissolve in water.

Surface Tension

The property of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force, due to cohesive forces between liquid molecules.

Homeostasis

The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.