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Flashcards in Biological molecules Deck (7)
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1
Q

Why is it useful that water has a high specific heat capacity?

A

It can act as a buffer against sudden temperature changes - which is good for aquatic environments.

2
Q

Name a biological process in the body which is caused by waters latent heat of vaporisation?

A

Sweating, to cool the body down

3
Q

What allows water to be sucked up a xylem vessel?

A

Water is cohesive.

4
Q

Name a biological reaction where water is used?

A

Hydrolysis reaction

5
Q

Why is water a good solvent?

A

It can dissolve: gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide

  • wastes like ammonia and urea
  • inorganic ions and small hydrophilic molecules like amino acids, ATP and monosaccharides
  • enzymes, when in solution
6
Q

What property of water allows aquatic plants to photosynthesise and let light rays reach the retina?

A

It is transparent

7
Q

What makes Water di polar?

A

Oxygen more electronegative than hydrogen.