Question

Water: A Cool Molecule in achieve 3000
Consider water's surface tension and density when it freezes. What causes water to have these properties? What effects do these properties have? Explain in your own words. Cite evidence to support your explanations.
3 simple sentences

Answer 1

Water's high surface tension comes from hydrogen bonds between its polar molecules, so the surface pulls tight and droplets bead and small insects can walk on it (NOAA; American Chemical Society). When water freezes, hydrogen bonds hold molecules in an open hexagonal lattice that takes up more space, so ice is less dense than liquid water and floats (USGS; chemistry textbooks). Because ice floats, it forms an insulating layer on lakes and ponds that helps aquatic life survive the winter (USGS; EPA).