Question

Seasonal changes in water temperature tend to remain within a narrow range. This is opposed to air temperature, which tends to fluctuate across a wide range. The relative stability of ocean temperatures helps to regulate the temperatures of coastal regions. Why can water remain within a narrow range of temperatures?
A.
It reflects heat and does not absorb heat.
B.
It is mobile and this allows heated water to sink.
C.
It has a high heat capacity.
D.
It is only stable within a small temperature range.

Answer 1

C.

Water has a high specific heat (high heat capacity) due to hydrogen bonding, so it absorbs or releases large amounts of heat with only small changes in temperature. This moderates temperature changes in oceans and nearby coastal regions.