Chemistry of Life Properties of Water
Polarity The unequal sharing of electrons causes the water molecule to be polar. The hydrogen end of the molecule is slightly positive, and the oxygen end is slightly negative. This property allows water to be the universal solvent. Will dissolve other polar compounds. Will not dissolve nonpolar compounds.
Hydrogen Bonds Because of their partial positive and negative charges, polar molecules such as water can attract each other in hydrogen bonds. Hydrogen Bonds are not as strong as covalent or ionic bonds. Makes water a liquid at room temperature Gives water many special properties.
Cohesion – an attraction between molecules of the same substance. Adhesion – an attraction between molecules of different substances.