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Essay / Importance of Water for Life - 1650
IntroductionThe Earth is host to many atmospheric conditions that allow water to exist in all three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. However, water's distinct properties are not only due to terrestrial conditions, but also result from an important form of intermolecular bonding, known as hydrogen bonds. All living organisms on earth need water to exist, without it they would perish. Although there are many factors on earth that allow life to exist, water is a major component. The importance of water for life can be studied by examining its physical and chemical properties. The reasons and evidence for this phenomenon are explained in this report. The Molecular Structure of Water In order to explore the importance of water to life on earth, it is important to understand the structure of water molecules. A water molecule, H2O, consists of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms bonded together covalently to form a polar V-shaped molecule. In a water molecule, two of the six electrons of the outer layer of oxygen are shared between the two hydrogen atoms. The remaining four electrons are organized into two unbonded electron pairs, creating four electron pairs in a water molecule that fit together as far apart as possible. The two unbonded pairs exert a stronger repulsive force against the two covalently bonded pairs of electrons, bringing the two hydrogen atoms closer together and giving rise to the V shape (Figure 1.1). Hydrogen bonds are responsible for the unrivaled properties of water. . A hydrogen bond is a form of intermolecular interaction that occurs between two opposite partial charges. When a hydrogen atom is bonded directly to a highly electronegative atom such as ...... middle of paper ...... s water in the form of sweat. Heat from the skin is transferred to water molecules. From water, the molecules that carry the most energy are released as water vapor. Therefore, heat is carried away and released along with water vapor into the air.ConclusionIn summary, the existence of water in all three states of matter on earth is vital for all living organisms. This incomparable molecule acquires its unique properties due to the appropriate atmospheric conditions on earth and the strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds that bind the molecules together. The life-supporting properties of water include its extensive 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 diversity of life on earth would not exist.