Properties of Water

Cohesion Water molecules are attracted to other water molecules. The oxygen end of water has a negative charge and the hydrogen end has a positive charge. The hydrogens of one water molecule are attracted to the oxygen from other water molecules. This attractive force is what gives water its cohesive properties.

Surface Tension Surface tension is the name we give to the cohesion of water molecules at the surface of a body of water. The cohesion of water molecules forms a surface "film" or “skin.” Some substances may reduce the cohesive force of water, which will reduce the strength of the surface “skin” of the water.

Adhesion Water molecules can be attracted to other materials. The adhesive property of water is what allows it to attach to the molecules of something else, such as a straw.

Capillary action Capillary action is related to the adhesive properties of water. You can see capillary action 'in action' by placing a straw into a glass of water. The water 'climbs' up the straw.

Capillary Action (con’t) When one water molecule moves closer to the straw molecules, the other water molecules (which are cohesively attracted to that water molecule) also move up into the straw. This is how water moves up the stems of plants.

Cohesion and Adhesion of Water

The Key to Life: Cause – Property – Effect THE CAUSE THE PROPERTY THE EFFECT COHESION, ADHESION, CAPILLARITY SOLID WATER IS LESS DENSE THAN LIQUID WATER.

The Key to Life: Cause – Property – Effect THE CAUSE THE PROPERTY THE EFFECT WATER IS UNIVERSAL SOLVENT. SPECIFIC HEAT: Large amount of heat is required to raise temperature one degree; water absorbs and releases heat energy; water exists in all three states of matter.