Why the heat capacity of water is high?

Thread starter wdlang
Start date Jul 22, 2012
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Capacity Heat Heat capacity Water

In summary, the high heat capacity of water is due to its polar molecular structure which allows for strong hydrogen bonds. This heat capacity changes at different temperatures, decreasing at lower temperatures and increasing at higher temperatures. The high heat capacity of water helps regulate the Earth's climate by absorbing and releasing heat, and can be altered by adding substances. For living organisms, the high heat capacity of water is crucial in maintaining a stable internal body temperature.

Jul 22, 2012

wdlang

which material has the highest heat capacity?

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Jul 22, 2012

phinds

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You should learn how to use Google, or some other search engine some day. They are very helpful

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_capacity#Table_of_specific_heat_capacities

1. Why is the heat capacity of water higher than other liquids?

The heat capacity of a liquid is a measure of how much energy is required to increase its temperature. Water has a high heat capacity because of its molecular structure. Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a positive and negative end, which allows them to form strong hydrogen bonds with each other. These hydrogen bonds require a lot of energy to break, resulting in a higher heat capacity compared to other liquids.

2. Does the heat capacity of water change at different temperatures?

Yes, the heat capacity of water changes at different temperatures. At low temperatures, the heat capacity of water decreases because the molecules are closer together, making it easier to break the hydrogen bonds. At higher temperatures, the heat capacity increases because the molecules are moving faster, making it harder to break the bonds.

3. How does the high heat capacity of water affect the Earth's climate?

The high heat capacity of water plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate. Oceans and large bodies of water can absorb a significant amount of heat without experiencing a large increase in temperature. This helps to moderate the Earth's temperature and prevent extreme temperature fluctuations.

4. Can the heat capacity of water be changed by adding substances to it?

Yes, the heat capacity of water can be changed by adding substances such as salt or other solutes. This is because these substances disrupt the hydrogen bonds between water molecules, making it easier to break them and resulting in a lower heat capacity.

5. How does the high heat capacity of water affect living organisms?

The high heat capacity of water is essential for regulating the body temperature of living organisms. The human body is made up of about 60% water, and the high heat capacity of water allows our bodies to absorb and release heat without experiencing extreme temperature changes. This is especially important for maintaining a stable internal body temperature and avoiding heatstroke or hypothermia.