AP Bio key terms Chapter 3

Hydrophilic

Water loving

Hydrophobic

Watfer fearing

Specific heat capacity

the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a specific amount of a substance (like 1 gram or 1 kilogram) by 1°C

Cohesion

the tendency of similar particles, molecules, or people to stick together and unite as one

Adhesion

the tendency of different, dissimilar particles or surfaces to cling to one another

Surface tension

the invisible "elastic skin" on the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist external forces

Capillary Action

the ability of a liquid to flow through narrow spaces without external forces

Sphere of hydration

the cluster of water molecules that forms around a dissolved particle

Buffer

something that acts as a protective shield or cushion to absorb shock and prevent sudden changes.