WATER The Special Properties of Water That Contribute to Earth’s Suitability as an Environment for Life

Water has cohesive and adhesive properties. Water forms “polar molecules”, creating “hydrogen bonds” between molecules. This results in… COHESION – water molecules attracted to each other ADHESION – water molecules attracted to other substances

Water expands upon freezing. Unlike most substances, water expands @9% when it freezes. When the temperature isn’t high enough for the vibration of molecules to break them, hydrogen bonds between the hydrogen and oxygen atoms force a very “open” crystalline structure. Liquid Water Solid Water

Water is the “Universal Solvent”. “Polar” & “ionic” substances dissolve in water. The water we encounter is rarely pure because so many minerals can easily dissolve in it.

Water has a very high specific heat capacity. This means that water heats up and cools down very slowly compared to other substances. Since most of the Earth is covered by water, it helps to maintain a moderate environment that is suitable for life.

Water has a moderate boiling point and freezing point. Unlike most substances, the freezing point and boiling point of water allow it to exist as a solid, liquid, and gas at natural Earth temperatures.