01:460:120 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Thermocline, Water Vapor, Solution
Document Summary
Water near the ocean"s surface moderates global temperature. Gases, such as oxygen and co2, dissolve easily in water. Acid-base balance: the ph of seawater does not change much. The ocean is stratified by density of seawater light travels differently through water than through air. Water is a polar chemical compound composed of 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom (h20) Water"s remarkable properties result from hydrogen bonds between water molecules. Hydrogen bonds form when the positive end of one water molecule is attracted to the negative end of another water molecule. Cohesion: the ability of water molecules to stick to each other, creating surface tension. Adhesion: the tendency of water molecules to stick to other substances. Unless other materials, the density (mass divided by volume) of water decreases as it goes from a liquid to solid. Water reaches its greatest density before it freezes. The high heat capacity of water moderates global temperatures.