Which property of water is due to the attraction between molecules of water?

• A. Cohesion
• B. Adhesion
• C. Surface tension
• D. Capillary action

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of cohesion. Cohesion refers to the attraction between molecules of the same substance. In the case of water, this is due to hydrogen bonding between water molecules.
2. Next, consider how cohesion manifests in water. Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other. This polarity leads to hydrogen bonds forming between adjacent water molecules.
3. Explore how cohesion contributes to surface tension. Surface tension is the result of cohesive forces at the surface of a liquid, where water molecules are more strongly attracted to each other than to the air above.
4. Differentiate cohesion from adhesion. While cohesion involves attraction between similar molecules, adhesion involves attraction between different substances, such as water molecules and the walls of a container.
5. Finally, examine how cohesion plays a role in capillary action. Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, which is partly due to cohesion and adhesion working together.