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Multiple Choice
Adhesion is best described as __________.
A
the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding
B
the ability of water to resist changes in temperature
C
the process by which water molecules evaporate from a surface
D
the attraction between water molecules and molecules of a different substance
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of adhesion: Adhesion refers to the attraction between water molecules and molecules of a different substance. This is distinct from cohesion, which is the attraction between water molecules themselves.
Review the properties of water: Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity allows water to form hydrogen bonds with other polar or charged substances.
Differentiate adhesion from other properties of water: For example, cohesion is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding, while adhesion involves water molecules interacting with other substances. This is why water can stick to surfaces like glass or plant cell walls.
Relate adhesion to real-world examples: Adhesion is responsible for phenomena like capillary action, where water moves up narrow tubes (e.g., in plant xylem) due to its attraction to the tube walls.
Eliminate incorrect options: The other choices describe different properties of water, such as cohesion (attraction between water molecules), high specific heat (resistance to temperature changes), and evaporation (transition of water from liquid to gas). These are not related to adhesion.