Forms Of Water
Key Notes :
Forms of Water
Water exists in three main forms: solid, liquid, and gas. These are referred to as the three states of matter. Water can change from one form to another through processes like melting, freezing, evaporation, and condensation.
1. Solid (Ice)
- Ice is the solid form of water.
- Water freezes and turns into ice at 0°C or 32°F.
- The molecules in ice are tightly packed and move very slowly.
- Ice is less dense than liquid water, which is why it floats on water.
2. Liquid (Water)
- Liquid water is the most common form of water on Earth.
- It is the form we see in rivers, lakes, oceans, and rain.
- Water molecules in the liquid state move more freely than in the solid state, but they are still close together.
- Water is a universal solvent, meaning many substances can dissolve in it.
3. Gas (Water Vapor)
- Water vapor is the gaseous form of water.
- Water evaporates and turns into vapor at temperatures above 100°C or 212°F (boiling point).
- The water molecules in vapor are far apart and move quickly.
- Water vapor can be found in the air, and it plays a key role in weather patterns, including the formation of clouds.
Key Processes of Water Change
- Melting: When ice (solid water) is heated, it melts and turns into liquid water.
- Freezing: Liquid water cools down below 0°C and becomes solid ice.
- Evaporation: When liquid water is heated, it changes into water vapor (gas).
- Condensation: Water vapor cools down and turns back into liquid water (this is how dew forms).
The Water Cycle
Water constantly moves between the three forms through the water cycle, which includes processes like:
- Evaporation (liquid to gas)
- Condensation (gas to liquid)
- Precipitation (rain, snow, hail)
- Infiltration (water soaking into the ground)
- Transpiration (plants releasing water vapor into the air)
Importance of Water
- Water is essential for life and supports all living organisms.
- It is a key component in natural processes like plant growth and nutrient cycling.
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