Which of the following properties of water explains its ability to dissolve many substances and act as a universal solvent?

• A. Water has a low surface tension.
• B. Water has a high specific heat capacity.
• C. Water expands upon freezing.
• D. Water is a polar molecule with partial positive and negative charges.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of polarity: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has an uneven distribution of electrons. The oxygen atom in water is more electronegative, pulling shared electrons closer to itself, resulting in a partial negative charge on oxygen and partial positive charges on the hydrogen atoms.
2. Recognize how polarity contributes to water's solvent properties: The partial positive and negative charges allow water molecules to interact with other polar molecules and ions, effectively surrounding and separating them.
3. Learn about hydrogen bonding: Water's polarity enables it to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules, which helps break apart solutes and keeps them dissolved in solution.
4. Relate this to the term 'universal solvent': Water's ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances is due to its polarity and hydrogen bonding, making it an excellent solvent for biological and chemical processes.
5. Connect the explanation to the correct answer: The property of water being a polar molecule with partial positive and negative charges directly explains its ability to dissolve many substances and act as a universal solvent.