How is the chemistry of water important to chemical reactions that support life? What does cohesion and polarity have to do with the chemical reactions and chemicals necessary for life?

Does the cohesion have to do with it sticking together into molecules, but also because of it's polar and non polar properties that help it work has a solvent. It is able to transport dissolved compounds in and out of cells. I'm not sure is that what the question is getting at and looking for in an answer?

Yes, you are on the right track! The chemistry of water is indeed crucial for chemical reactions that support life. Let's dive deeper into how cohesion and polarity play important roles in these reactions.

First, let's understand cohesion. Cohesion refers to the ability of water molecules to stick to one another through hydrogen bonding. This property allows water to form droplets, have surface tension, and flow smoothly. In the context of chemical reactions necessary for life, cohesion is essential for the transport of water through plants, the movement of blood in our circulatory system, and the proper function of our cells.

Cohesion allows water to move in a continuous upward flow in plants, enabling nutrients to be transported from roots to leaves. In our circulatory system, cohesive forces between water molecules facilitate the smooth flow of blood through narrow vessels. Additionally, cohesion is crucial for cell function as it helps water move freely within and between cells, facilitating various metabolic processes.

Now let's consider the polarity of water. Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a positive charge at one end (hydrogen) and a negative charge at the other end (oxygen). This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules or ions.

For chemical reactions to occur in living organisms, many reactants and products are often polar or charged. Water's polarity allows it to dissolve and act as a solvent for these polar or charged substances. It surrounds and separates the ions or polar molecules, enabling them to interact and facilitate chemical reactions.

In cells, water's polarity allows it to dissolve and transport vital nutrients like glucose, amino acids, and ions across cell membranes. It also aids in the removal of waste products. Furthermore, the polarity of water is crucial for the functioning of proteins and enzymes, which are essential for all biological reactions.

To summarize, the cohesion of water enables its transport within organisms, while its polarity allows it to act as a versatile solvent for chemical reactions necessary for life. These properties of water play vital roles in maintaining homeostasis and facilitating the reactions that support life.