AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Because of its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds, water makes an excellent solvent, meaning that it can dissolve many different kinds of molecules.

Detailed explanation-2: -Hydrogen bonds allow ions and other polar molecules to dissolve in water. Therefore, water is an excellent solvent. The hydrogen bonds between water molecules cause the water to have a high heat capacity, meaning it takes a lot of added heat to raise its temperature.

Detailed explanation-3: -Because water is polar, with slight positive and negative charges, ionic compounds and polar molecules can readily dissolve in it. Water is, therefore, what is referred to as a solvent-a substance capable of dissolving another substance.

Detailed explanation-4: -We call substances that dissolve in water soluble. Sugar and salt are examples of soluble substances. Substances that do not dissolve in water are called insoluble. Sand and flour are examples of insoluble substances.

Detailed explanation-5: -Because of their polarity, water molecules are strongly attracted to one another, which gives water a high surface tension. The molecules at the surface of the water “stick together” to form a type of ‘skin’ on the water, strong enough to support very light objects.