[Campbell Biology P.35] Concept 3.2 highlights four emergent properties of water that contr... | Practice Question

Concept 3.2 highlights four emergent properties of water that contribute to Earth's suitability for life. Which property explains why ice floats on liquid water, a crucial aspect for aquatic life in cold environments?

  • A: Cohesion of Water Molecules
  • B: Moderation of Temperature by Water
  • C: Floating of Ice on Liquid Water
  • D: Water: The Solvent of Life
  • E: High surface tension

Explanation

Concept 3.2 specifically lists 'Floating of Ice on Liquid Water' as one of the four emergent properties of water that contribute to Earth's suitability for life. This property is unique because water is one of the few substances whose solid form is less dense than its liquid form.