Water Properties

Water Structure of water: “polar molecule” with one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms The hydrogen end is positive and the oxygen end is negative

Covalent Bonds Covalent Bonds: strong bonds that hold a water molecule together Form between O and H in the same water molecule

Hydrogen Bonds Hydrogen Bonds: weak bonds that make water stick to other water Form between H and O in different water molecules http://www.wiley.com/college/boyer/0470003790/reviews/pH/ph_water.htm

Properties of Water Polarity Description: one end of a water molecule is negative and the other end is positive

What happens because of it? Water is attracted to other polar molecules

Properties of Water 2. Universal Solvent Description: Most solids and gases will dissolve in water

What happens because of it? Hydrophobic: will not dissolve Hydrophilic: will dissolve

Properties of Water 3. Adhesion Description: Water sticks to other polar molecules

What happens because of it? Capillary Action: Water “climbs” up surfaces

Properties of Water 4. Cohesion Description: Water molecules stick to other water molecules

What happens because of it? Surface Tension: The surface of water resists forces and pressure

water in space

Properties of Water 5. Density Description: Water is the only substance that gets less dense when it freezes

What happens because of it? ICE FLOATS!

Properties of water 6. High heat capacity Description: water takes more energy to heat up than most liquids

What happens because of it? Water holds its temperature well

Properties of Water 7. Neutral pH Description:

What happens because of it? Most organisms need a neutral pH to live