2.1.2: Water

Question 1

What is high specific heat capacity?

Answer 1

A property of water requiring a lot of energy to raise its temperature due to hydrogen bonds

This helps maintain stable internal temperatures in organisms.

Question 2

What is the significance of water’s large latent heat of vaporisation?

Answer 2

It requires a lot of energy to convert water from liquid to gaseous state, providing a cooling effect

This is crucial for temperature regulation in organisms, such as through sweating.

Question 3

Why does water act as a coolant?

Answer 3

Water absorbs heat energy to evaporate, thus cooling the organism

For example, sweating helps regulate human body temperature.

Question 4

What role does water play as a habitat for aquatic organisms?

Answer 4

Water buffers temperature, providing a stable environment despite external temperature fluctuations

This stability is essential for the survival of aquatic life.

Question 5

What is cohesion in relation to water?

Answer 5

The property that allows water molecules to stick together, providing surface tension

This allows small invertebrates to live on the water’s surface.

Question 6

What is surface tension?

Answer 6

The elastic-like force at the surface of water due to cohesion

It enables small organisms to move and live on water surfaces.

Question 7

Why is ice less dense than liquid water?

Answer 7

Due to hydrogen bonds, ice has a structure that makes it less dense

This allows ice to float, providing a habitat for some animals.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: Water has a _______ specific heat capacity, which helps maintain stable internal temperatures in organisms.

Answer 8

high

Question 9

True or False: Water’s high specific heat capacity means it can quickly change temperature.

Answer 9

False

Question 10

What allows ice to float on water?

Answer 10

Its lower density compared to liquid water due to hydrogen bonding

This characteristic is vital for aquatic ecosystems.