Topic > Importance of Water for Life - 1650

IntroductionThe earth hosts many atmospheric conditions that allow water to exist in all three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. However, water's distinctive properties are not only due to the conditions of the earth, but arise from a significant form of intermolecular bonding, known as hydrogen bonds. All living organisms on earth need water to exist, without it they would die. Although there are numerous factors on earth that allow life to exist, water is an important component. The importance of water for life can be studied by observing its physical and chemical properties. The reasons and evidence for this are explained in this report. The Molecular Structure of Water To explore the significance of water for life on earth, it is important to understand the structure of water molecules. A water molecule, H2O, is made up of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded together to form a V-shaped polar molecule. In a water molecule, two of the six electrons in the oxygen's outer shell are shared between the two hydrogen atoms. The remaining four electrons are organized into two loose electron pairs, thus creating four electron pairs in a water molecule that are arranged as far apart as possible. The two nonbonding pairs exert a stronger repulsive force against the two covalently bonded pairs of electrons, pushing the two hydrogen atoms closer together and resulting in the V shape (Figure 1.1). Hydrogen bonds are responsible for the unparalleled properties of water. . A hydrogen bond is a form of intermolecular interaction that occurs between two opposing partial charges. When a hydrogen atom is bonded directly to a highly electronegative atom such as... middle of paper... water in the form of sweat. The heat from the skin is transferred to the water molecules. From the water, molecules that carry more energy are released in the form of water vapor. Therefore, heat is removed and released into the air along with water vapor. Conclusion In summary, the existence of water in all three states of matter on earth is vital to all living organisms. This incomparable molecule acquires its unique properties thanks to the suitable atmospheric conditions on earth and the strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds that bind the molecules together. Life-supporting properties of water include its widespread dissolving power, unusual change in density between states of matter, cohesive and adhesive nature, high specific heat, and high heat of vaporization. Without water and its properties, the vast array of life forms on earth would not exist.