Why are there anomalies in the properties of water?

  • Thread starter Thread starter waterfall
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the anomalies in water properties, highlighting that many of these anomalies are not unique to water but can also be observed in other small molecules. The behavior of light elements often deviates from trends established for heavier molecules, with the tetrahedral coordination of molecules in the solvation shell being a key factor in these differences. This tetrahedral arrangement influences how smaller molecules interact, leading to unique properties. The conversation suggests that while some anomalies remain unsolved, the underlying principles can often be explained through molecular coordination and interactions, drawing parallels with other tetrahedral liquids like silica, silicon, and germanium.
waterfall
Messages
380
Reaction score
1
http://www.lsbu.ac.uk/water/anmlies.html

Why is there so much anomalies in water properties (as mentioned in the site above)? How many are really unsolved and would anyone here happen to know the answer to each puzzle?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
There is nothing strange in fact that some small molecules of light elements behave differently than it would be logical if you look at trends determined for heavier molecules/elements. Effects that tend to be hidden by the more prominent effects present in large molecules become dominating in smaller molecules, hence the differences.
 
Anomalies are not unique to water. It seems the key factor is the tetrahedral coordination of molecules in the solvation shell. Other "tetrahedral" liquids are e.g. silica, silicon, and germanium.
 
I want to test a humidity sensor with one or more saturated salt solutions. The table salt that I have on hand contains one of two anticaking agents, calcium silicate or sodium aluminosilicate. Will the presence of either of these additives (or iodine for that matter) significantly affect the equilibrium humidity? I searched and all the how-to-do-it guides did not address this question. One research paper I found reported that at 1.5% w/w calcium silicate increased the deliquescent point by...
Back
Top