Which of the following is NOT a property of water that contributes to its role as an essential solvent for life on Earth?

• A. Ability to dissolve a wide range of substances
• B. High heat capacity
• C. Nonpolar nature
• D. Cohesion and adhesion

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the properties of water that make it an essential solvent: Water is known for its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances due to its polar nature, which allows it to interact with various ions and molecules.
2. Recognize the significance of water's high heat capacity: This property allows water to absorb and retain heat, helping to stabilize temperatures in environments, which is crucial for life.
3. Identify the role of cohesion and adhesion in water: Cohesion refers to the attraction between water molecules, while adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other surfaces. These properties are important for processes like capillary action in plants.
4. Consider the nature of water's polarity: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, which contributes to its solvent properties.
5. Determine which property does not fit: The nonpolar nature is not a property of water. Water's polarity is essential for its role as a solvent, so the nonpolar nature would not contribute to its effectiveness as a solvent.