2.4 Water

Question 1

Why is water described as dipolar?

Answer 1

The water molecule has both positive and negative poles

Question 2

What is a hydrogen bond and why does it form?

Answer 2

Weak electrostatic force of attraction between a less negatively charge H and a more negatively charge O or N (positive pole attracted to negative pole)
Each bond weak but together form important forces that cause the water molecules to stick together

Question 3

Define cohesion

Answer 3

Water molecules stick to other water molecules

Question 4

Define adhesion

Answer 4

Water molecules stick to other molecules

Question 5

Explain water’s high specific heat capacity

Answer 5

Water absorbs a relatively large amount of heat before its temperature changes
This is because water molecules stick together, it takes more energy to separate them than would be needed if they did not bond to one another

Question 6

What uses does water’s high specific heat capacity have?

Answer 6

Water acts as a buffer against sudden temperature variations, making the aquatic environment a temperature-stable one