What are some important properties of the water?

Answer 1

In general Biology classes, these are the properties of water that are usually emphasized:

A. Water is polar.

1. This means that water has a positive end (hydrogen end) and a negative end (the oxygen end).

2. Since water is polar, it dissolves many kinds of molecules by pulling on the parts that have charges. Dissolving substances is important because many materials must be dissolved to be moved around inside an organism.

3. Water molecules tend to stick to each other, positive end of one sticking to negative end of another. This causes such effects as capillary action and surface tension.

B. Water expands as it freezes.

1. So ice forms on the tops of lakes and rivers, leaving a suitable habitat underneath for many organisms.

2. Water freezing in the cracks of rocks breaks the rocks to pieces, helping to form soil.

3. Water freezing inside cells can kill the cells by breaking them open.

C. Water resists temperature change.

1. The water inside living things helps maintain a more even body temperature.

2. Water in natural ecosystems doesn't have extremely variable temps like other habitats have - easier on the organisms that live there.

Answer 2

Water is a polar molecule with a bent molecular shape, enabling hydrogen bonding among molecules. It has a high specific heat capacity, allowing it to absorb and release heat slowly. Water exhibits cohesion and adhesion properties, contributing to capillary action and surface tension. Additionally, water is a universal solvent due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances.