Properties of Water

Polar Molecule

An unequal distribution of charges affects H2O by making it polar.

Cohesion

The phenomenon where two molecules of the same substance stick together.

Surface Tension

The property of a liquid that makes its surface difficult to stretch.

Adhesion

The tendency of two different molecules to stick together, forming stronger bonds than cohesion.

Capillary Action

The ability of water to travel up a small enclosed tube, against gravity.

Importance of Capillary Action

It helps plants soak up nutrients essential for growth and development.

High Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of energy required to raise the temperature of water, aiding in temperature regulation in organisms.

Solute

The substance that is being dissolved in a solution.

Solvent

The substance that does the dissolving in a solution.

Solution

A uniform mixture of one or more substances.

Water Polarity

Water is polar due to one negatively charged oxygen atom and two positively charged hydrogen atoms.

Acidic pH

A pH value less than 7 indicates an acidic solution.

Basic pH

A pH value greater than 7 indicates a basic solution.

Neutral pH

A pH value of 7 is considered neutral.

Acids and Bases

Acids contribute H+, while bases contribute OH-.