Explain the structure of a water molecule and how hydrogen bonding leads to some of its very special properties. Be sure to include how these properties are important to life on Earth
Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "hydrogen bonding water molecule properties" to get these possible sources:
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=hydrogen+bonding+water+molecule+properties&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&gws_rd=ssl
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search. Also see http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/.
http://www.hackcollege.com/blog/2011/11/23/infographic-get-more-out-of-google.html
Also try "water properties life on earth."
The structure of a water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded covalently to a single oxygen atom. This gives water its chemical formula H2O. The oxygen atom in the center forms a slightly negatively charged region, while the hydrogen atoms carry a slight positive charge.
Hydrogen bonding plays a crucial role in some of the unique properties of water. It occurs due to the attraction between the positively charged hydrogen atom of one water molecule and the negatively charged oxygen atom of an adjacent water molecule. These bonds are weaker than covalent or ionic bonds but are still significant.
One special property of water resulting from hydrogen bonding is its high boiling point and melting point compared to other compounds of similar size and structure. This is because the hydrogen bonds require additional energy to break before the molecules can transition from a solid to a liquid or from a liquid to a gas. The high boiling and melting points of water make it exist in a liquid state within the temperature range suitable for life on Earth.
Water also has a high specific heat capacity, meaning it can absorb and store a large amount of heat energy before its temperature changes significantly. This property is critical for regulating Earth's temperature by acting as a heat reservoir. Water bodies, such as oceans and lakes, absorb and then release heat gradually, helping to stabilize the temperature of the surrounding environment. This stability is crucial for the survival of various organisms.
Additionally, the cohesive nature of water due to hydrogen bonding allows it to form droplets and maintain surface tension. This property is important for capillary action, allowing water to move against gravity in plants and small tubes. It also enables water to form shapes like raindrops or dew on plants, which are vital for hydration and nutrient distribution in ecosystems.
Moreover, water is an excellent solvent due to its polarity resulting from hydrogen bonding. It can dissolve a wide range of substances, including ions and polar molecules, making it a crucial medium for various biological processes. This property facilitates the transportation of essential nutrients, the removal of waste products, and the proper functioning of cells in living organisms.
In summary, the hydrogen bonding in water gives rise to its exceptional properties, such as high boiling and melting points, high specific heat capacity, cohesion, and excellent solvent ability. These properties are crucial for supporting life on Earth by providing a stable environment, regulating temperature, enabling transportation of substances, and facilitating biological processes.