[Campbell Biology P.96] Which statement best describes the significance of water's high spe... | Practice Question

Which statement best describes the significance of water's high specific heat?

  • A: Water heats up very quickly but cools down slowly, which is beneficial for aquatic life.
  • B: Water requires a relatively large amount of heat to change its temperature, helping to moderate Earth's climate and organismal temperatures.
  • C: Water's specific heat is ten times less than that of iron, making it an excellent heat conductor.
  • D: Its high specific heat is the primary reason water is a universal solvent.

Explanation

Water's high specific heat means it takes a significant amount of energy to change its temperature. This property is crucial for moderating global and local climates, as large bodies of water absorb and release heat slowly, thus stabilizing temperatures. It also helps organisms maintain a stable internal temperature.