Properties of Water: AP Biology.

  • Cohesion: Water molecules are attracted to each other due to hydrogen bonds, which leads to high surface tension.

  • Adhesion: Water also has the ability to stick to other substances, aiding in capillary action.

  • High specific heat capacity: Water can absorb significant amounts of heat without a large increase in temperature, helping to regulate climates and maintain homeostasis in organisms.

  • Density: Water is most dense at 4°C, which is why ice floats on liquid water, creating an insulating layer that protects aquatic life during cold seasons.

  • Solvent properties: Water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" because it can dissolve a wide variety of substances, facilitating essential biochemical reactions and processes within living organisms.