Physical properties of Water

In this post we will try and understand physical properties of water.We will first define water and then will discuss on the properties.

As we all know the water structure is made of two compounds of hydrogen and one compound of Oxygen.

Cohesion: Water molecules stick to each other.This is caused by hydrogen bonds that form between the slightly positive and negative ends of neighboring molecules. 

Adhesion: Water molecules stick to other surfaces.

Surface Tension: Water has the ability to support small objects.  The hydrogen bonds between neighboring molecules cause a “film” to develop at the surface.

Water has a high boiling point: Water is one of the few substances that remain a liquid at such a large range of temperatures (O-100 °C).  A large amount of energy must be invested to overcome the hydrogen bonds in liquid water to change it to the gas phase.

Capillary Action: Water has the ability to “climb” structures.  Think about what happens when you stick the tip of a straw in a glass of water.  

Ability to dissolve: Water is considered to be the universal solvent.  More substances will dissolve in water than any other liquid.  This includes other polar substances (such as sugar) and ionic compounds (such as salt).