Questions: Many of the unusual properties of water are attributed to the fact that water: - is a universal solvent. - is a polar molecule. - requires heat to condense. - contains ionic bonds. - exists in three states of matter on Earth's surface.

Solution Steps

Water has several unusual properties, such as high surface tension, high specific heat capacity, and the ability to dissolve many substances. These properties are primarily due to its molecular structure and interactions.

• Universal Solvent: Water is known as a universal solvent because it can dissolve many substances, but this is a result of its polarity, not the cause of its unusual properties.
• Polar Molecule: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other. This polarity leads to hydrogen bonding, which is responsible for many of water's unusual properties.
• Requires Heat to Condense: This is a general property of all substances and not unique to water.
• Contains Ionic Bonds: Water contains covalent bonds, not ionic bonds.
• Exists in Three States of Matter on Earth's Surface: While true, this is a result of its properties rather than a cause.

The unusual properties of water, such as its high boiling point, surface tension, and solvent capabilities, are primarily due to its polarity and the resulting hydrogen bonds.

Final Answer