A1.1 - Water Flashcards
Why is water considered a polar molecule?
The electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen creates a partial negative charge on oxygen and partial positive charges on hydrogens.
What is adhesion in relation to water?
Adhesion is the ability of water molecules to stick to other substances, important for capillary action.
What allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds?
The polarity of water molecules enables them to form hydrogen bonds with each other.
What is cohesion in the context of water?
Cohesion refers to water molecules sticking to each other due to hydrogen bonding, creating surface tension.
Why is water an excellent solvent?
Water’s polarity makes it an excellent solvent for polar and ionic compounds, essential for biological processes.
How are cholesterol and fats transported in blood?
Cholesterol and fats are transported in lipoproteins due to their hydrophobic nature.
What makes water an effective coolant?
Water’s high specific heat capacity and high latent heat of vaporization make it an excellent coolant.
What is the specific heat capacity of water?
Not the value
Water has a high specific heat capacity, allowing it to absorb or release a lot of heat with minimal temperature change.
What are hydrophilic substances?
Hydrophilic substances interact favorably with water, such as sugars and salts.
What are hydrophobic substances?
Hydrophobic substances do not interact well with water, including fats and oils.
What is the molecular structure of water?
Water (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
What role does water play in thermoregulation for humans?
Sweating is a crucial mechanism for thermoregulation, utilizing water’s cooling properties.
What is the significance of water resources in relation to population growth?
Equitable distribution of water resources is critical for drinking, agriculture, industry, and ecosystem maintenance.
How does water transport glucose and amino acids in blood?
Glucose and amino acids are dissolved directly in the water component of blood plasma.
How do the boiling and melting points of water compare to methane?
Water has a boiling point of 100°C and a melting point of 0°C, while methane has a boiling point of -161.5°C and a melting point of -182.5°C.
