Adhesion is best described as which of the following?

• A. A property of water that helps moderate Earth's temperature
• B. The process by which a crystalline lattice forms
• C. The process that contributes to the transport of water and dissolved nutrients in plants by causing water molecules to tug on other water molecules
• D. The clinging of one substance to another substance

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of adhesion in the context of chemistry and biology. Adhesion refers to the tendency of different substances to cling to each other.
2. Consider the properties of water, which include cohesion and adhesion. Cohesion is the attraction between molecules of the same substance, while adhesion is the attraction between molecules of different substances.
3. Reflect on how adhesion plays a role in biological systems, such as in plants. Adhesion allows water molecules to stick to the walls of plant vessels, aiding in the transport of water and nutrients.
4. Evaluate the options given in the problem. The correct description of adhesion is the clinging of one substance to another substance, which is distinct from cohesion.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the clinging of one substance to another substance, as this accurately describes adhesion.