Which of the following is NOT a property of water?

• A. Ability to dissolve nonpolar molecules easily
• B. Adhesion to other polar substances
• C. High surface tension
• D. Cohesion between water molecules

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the properties of water: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side (hydrogen atoms) and a partial negative charge on the other side (oxygen atom). This polarity gives water its unique properties.
2. Review the concept of cohesion: Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding. This property allows water molecules to stick together, contributing to phenomena like surface tension.
3. Review the concept of adhesion: Adhesion refers to the attraction between water molecules and other polar substances. This property allows water to climb up surfaces, such as the walls of plant xylem during capillary action.
4. Understand water's ability to dissolve substances: Water is known as the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve many polar and ionic substances. However, nonpolar molecules (e.g., oils) do not dissolve easily in water due to the lack of attraction between water molecules and nonpolar molecules.
5. Identify the property that is NOT true: Based on the above, the property 'Ability to dissolve nonpolar molecules easily' is NOT a characteristic of water, as water cannot effectively dissolve nonpolar substances.