Chemical & Physical Properties of Water

Chemical Properties of Water

Structure of Water Molecule

• Composed of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
• Bent shape due to electron pair repulsion.
• Polar molecule with a partial negative charge near oxygen and partial positive near hydrogen.

How are Water Molecules Linked?

• Water molecules linked by hydrogen bonds.
• Hydrogen bonds contribute to water's unique properties.

State of Water

• Exists in three states: solid, liquid, gas.
• Transitions between states involve energy changes.

Water as a Universal Solvent

• Capable of dissolving a variety of substances.
• Polarity allows it to dissolve ionic and polar compounds.

Physical Properties of Water

High Specific Heat Capacity of Water

• Water can absorb a lot of heat without a significant rise in temperature.
• Helps regulate temperature in environments and organisms.

High Latent Heat of Vaporisation of Water

• Requires a large amount of energy to change from liquid to gas.
• Allows for effective cooling mechanisms, like sweating.

Density of Water

• Maximum density at 4°C.
• Ice is less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float.

High Cohesive Force of Water

• Water molecules stick together due to hydrogen bonding.
• Results in phenomena such as water droplets forming.

High Surface Tension of Water

• Water has a high surface tension due to cohesive forces.
• Allows small insects to walk on water and supports capillary action.

Biologically Important Functions of Water

• Essential for life processes.
• Acts as a solvent, temperature buffer, and reactant in metabolic reactions.
• Important in maintaining cell structure and function.