The tendency of water molecules to stay close to each other as a result of hydrogen bonding __________.

• A. provides the surface tension that allows small animals to move across a water surface
• B. is called cohesion
• C. helps to keep water moving through the vessels in a tree trunk
• D. is called cohesion, acts to moderate temperature, provides the surface tension that allows small animals to move across a water surface, and helps to keep water moving through the vessels in a tree trunk

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonds are weak attractions between the slightly positive hydrogen atom of one water molecule and the slightly negative oxygen atom of another water molecule.
2. Recognize the term 'cohesion': Cohesion refers to the attraction between molecules of the same substance, in this case, water molecules, due to hydrogen bonding.
3. Identify how cohesion contributes to surface tension: The cohesive forces between water molecules at the surface create a 'film' that provides surface tension, allowing small animals to move across the water surface.
4. Explore the role of cohesion in plant physiology: Cohesion helps in the movement of water through the xylem vessels in plants, as water molecules stick together and are pulled up through the plant.
5. Consider the moderating effect of water's cohesive properties on temperature: The hydrogen bonds in water require energy to break, which helps to moderate temperature by absorbing heat without a significant change in temperature.