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Multiple Choice
Which property of water allows it to help regulate temperature in living organisms?
A
Low surface tension
B
High density as a solid
C
Ability to dissolve nonpolar substances
D
High specific heat capacity
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of specific heat capacity: Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by 1 degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat capacity due to the hydrogen bonds between its molecules.
Recognize the importance of hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds in water require significant energy to break. This means water can absorb or release large amounts of heat with only a small change in its temperature, making it an excellent temperature regulator.
Relate this property to living organisms: In living organisms, water's high specific heat capacity helps maintain stable internal temperatures despite external temperature fluctuations. This is crucial for homeostasis.
Eliminate incorrect options: Low surface tension refers to water's cohesive properties, high density as a solid is related to ice floating, and the ability to dissolve nonpolar substances is incorrect because water is a polar solvent and dissolves polar substances well.
Conclude that the correct property is high specific heat capacity, as it directly contributes to water's ability to regulate temperature in living organisms.