Electrons are not always shared equally - sometimes,
there can be more negative charges closer to one atom in
the bond than the other. This makes a molecule POLAR
The atom with the greater
amount of negative ions is slightly
negative compared to the other
atom in the bond, which is slightly
positive
Electrons are negatively charged
Structure of Water
Water Molecules can interact with
each other due to hydrogen bonding
Hydrogen bonds are relatively weak. They are constantly breaking and
reforming as water flows and moves around. However, because they occur in
such large numbers, they give water its unique properties
Properties of Water
Water has an unusually high boiling point. The
hydrogen bonds mean that it takes a large
amount of energy to raise the temperature of it
by 1 degree.
When water freezes it is known as ice, a solid. With most substances, their solid
state is more dense than their liquid state. However, with water, the solid state
is less dense than liquid water. This is due to cool temperatures freezing the
hydrogen bonds further apart than in the average liquid makeup. This
produces a large, open, rigid structure. So, ice floats.
Ice provides a habitat for a variety of living species
Water is cohesive (sticks to itself) as all
of the molecules are bonding together.
This is how we can drunk through a
straw or how water moves up a plant
It is also adhesive
(sticks to other
materials), allowing us
to wash our hands
without water
running instantly off
Water for Life
Water is a solvent, so lots of molecules can dissolve into it being as it is
polar, like other solutes. Hence, it can be used as a transport system in
and out of cells
Adhesion and cohesion give water CAPILLARY ACTION which means water can flow
up a narrow tube against gravity.
Water acts as a coolant as
it takes a lot of energy to
raise its temperature
Water provides a stable environment. Its surface tension provides an environment for specialised insects such as pond
skaters whilst its ice provides an arctic habitat for mammals. The ice also insulates the water beneath, making the water
below suitable for fish life and some mammals. It is also a suitable habitat as the waters temperature does not fluctuate
easily. Water also lets light through for aquatic plants.