Water // biochemistry Flashcards
What kind of molecule is water
Polar
What is cohesion
Water molecules stuck together with weak hydrogen bonds
How are small animals able to walk on water
The hydrogen bonds generates a surface tension at the surface
Is water a solvent
Yes
Why is water being a solvent so important
It’s an important transport medium in animals and plants
How is water used in hydrolysis reaction
Used to break molecules apart
How is water used in condensation reactions
It’s removed from molecules to join them together
What is specific heat capacity
The energy required to raise 1g of a substance by 1oc
Why is it good water has a high specific heat capacity
Cos a large amount of energy is needed to increase the temp of water so remains at constant temp. Maintains constant temp for enzymes
Why is waters High specific heat capacity important for organisms
Due to thier high water content, thier bodies are slow to change temp and so easier to maintain stable body temp
What is latent heat of vaporisation
The energy required to change phase eg Fromm liquid to gas
Why is latent heat of vaporisation important in water
Water needs lots of energy to change into gas. Heat is taken away from organism and is an effective means of cooling
Why is it important solid water is less dense than liquid water
Allowed ice to float and form land masses. Habitats made
