Which property allows water to resist changes in temperature?

• A. Low surface tension
• B. Low heat of vaporization
• C. High specific heat capacity
• D. High vapor pressure

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of specific heat capacity: Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat capacity, meaning it can absorb or release a large amount of heat with only a small change in temperature.
2. Relate this property to water's molecular structure: Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with each other. These bonds require significant energy to break, which contributes to water's ability to resist temperature changes.
3. Compare the given options: Analyze each property listed in the problem. Low surface tension refers to the ability of a liquid to minimize its surface area, which is unrelated to temperature resistance. Low heat of vaporization refers to the energy required to convert liquid to gas, which is also unrelated to temperature resistance. High vapor pressure refers to the tendency of a liquid to evaporate, which does not explain temperature resistance.
4. Identify the correct property: High specific heat capacity is the property that allows water to resist changes in temperature. This is due to the energy required to break hydrogen bonds before the temperature can increase significantly.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Water's high specific heat capacity plays a critical role in stabilizing temperatures in biological systems and environments, making it essential for life on Earth.