Water's Structure and Special Properties
Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has regions of positive and negative charge. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other, creating cohesion—the ability of water molecules to stick together.
This cohesive nature gives water remarkable properties. Surface tension, which makes water's surface act like a stretchy film, allows insects to walk on water and plants to pull water upward through their stems. Water also exhibits adhesion, the tendency to cling to other substances, which works with cohesion to move water up narrow tubes in plants.
Water's properties affect temperature regulation in living things. Thermal energy represents the motion energy of molecules, while temperature measures the average kinetic energy of molecules. Because of hydrogen bonding, water can absorb significant heat with minimal temperature change.
Real-World Connection: Ever notice how coastal areas have milder climates than inland regions? Water's ability to moderate temperature explains this—it's the same property that helps your body maintain a stable internal temperature!
