water exam Q

• Explain how hydrogen bonding gives water its unique properties. (2)

  Answer: Hydrogen bonds form between water molecules due to polarity. This gives water a high specific heat capacity and high latent heat of vaporization.
• Describe how water polarity makes it a good solvent. (2)

  Answer: Water is polar, meaning it can surround and dissolve charged and polar molecules, allowing them to be transported in biological systems.
• Explain why water has a high specific heat capacity and why this is important for living organisms. (3)

  Answer: Hydrogen bonds absorb heat energy before breaking, meaning water resists temperature changes. This helps maintain stable environments in cells and aquatic habitats.
• How does the high latent heat of vaporization of water benefit organisms? (2)

  Answer: A lot of energy is needed to evaporate water, meaning organisms lose heat efficiently through sweating or transpiration without losing too much water.
• Explain how cohesion and adhesion contribute to water transport in plants. (3)

  Answer: Cohesion between water molecules allows water to form a continuous column in xylem vessels. Adhesion to the walls of the xylem helps pull water upwards against gravity.