Which statement about water best illustrates the property of adhesion?

• A. Water molecules are attracted to each other, creating surface tension.
• B. Water forms a meniscus in a graduated cylinder due to attraction between water molecules.
• C. Water molecules form beads on a waxed car surface.
• D. Water droplets stick to the surface of a glass window.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of adhesion: Adhesion refers to the ability of water molecules to stick to other substances due to intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonding.
2. Differentiate adhesion from cohesion: Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves, while adhesion involves water molecules interacting with other surfaces or materials.
3. Analyze the examples provided: Evaluate each statement to determine whether it describes adhesion or cohesion. For instance, surface tension and beads on a waxed car surface are examples of cohesion, not adhesion.
4. Focus on the correct example: Water droplets sticking to a glass window illustrate adhesion because the water molecules are interacting with the glass surface rather than with each other.
5. Conclude the reasoning: The property of adhesion is best demonstrated by water droplets sticking to a glass window, as this shows the attraction between water molecules and the glass surface.