A small molecule with 2 atoms of hydrogen and 1 atom of oxygen
Polarity of water
The hydrogen atoms in a water molecule are slightly positive and the oxygen atom is slightly negative
Water molecules
Cohesive (they stick to each other)
Adhesive (they stick to other water molecules)
Less dense in its solid state (ice floats)
The hydrogen bonds are weaker and further apart when water is a solid (ice)
Ice sheets provide habitat for polar organisms. When water floats on ice it insulates the liquid water below. This maintains a liquid habitat in sub-zero conditions
High specific heat capacity
It takes a large amount of energy to heat up water by 1Co than other substances
Most living organisms are water. This means that your temperature and cytoplasm remain at a fairly constant temperature. This allows for enzymes to function
High surface tension
Water molecules stick to each other but not to the surrounding air
High surface tension Allows for small organisms to move around on the surface of water eg pond skaters
Good solvent
Can dissolve other substances (solutes)
A Good solvent allows animals and plants to transport substances around the whole organism eg in blood and xylem and phloem
