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Multiple Choice
Which two properties of water are most important for sustaining a healthy ecosystem?
A
Water's high density prevents it from mixing with other substances in the environment.
B
Cohesion allows water molecules to stick together, enabling the transport of water in plants.
C
Adhesion allows water to stick to other surfaces, aiding in capillary action within soil and plant tissues.
D
Water's inability to dissolve substances limits nutrient availability in ecosystems.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the properties of water that are relevant to ecosystems. Water has unique characteristics such as cohesion, adhesion, high specific heat, and its ability to dissolve substances.
Step 2: Focus on the concepts of cohesion and adhesion. Cohesion refers to the ability of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding. This property is crucial for processes like the transport of water in plants through the xylem.
Step 3: Examine adhesion, which is the ability of water molecules to stick to other surfaces. This property is essential for capillary action, allowing water to move through soil and plant tissues, delivering nutrients to various parts of the ecosystem.
Step 4: Compare these properties to the incorrect statements provided in the problem. For example, water's high density does not prevent mixing, and water's ability to dissolve substances actually enhances nutrient availability rather than limiting it.
Step 5: Conclude that cohesion and adhesion are the two most important properties of water for sustaining a healthy ecosystem, as they enable water transport and nutrient distribution within plants and soil.