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Multiple Choice
If water were not a polar molecule, how would the effects of climatic warming differ from those currently observed or predicted to occur in the future?
A
If water molecules were nonpolar, then water vapor would be less effective as a greenhouse gas, and the effects of global warming would be less extreme.
B
The effects would be worse because a loss of the polar molecular structure would lead to a greater amount of heat absorbed by water molecules and, thus, an increase in its specific heat.
C
If water were nonpolar, the effects on global warming would be only slightly worse because there are other polar molecules that can moderate climate as water does.
D
The effects would be drastically worse because the loss of the polar nature of water would greatly reduce its specific heat and its ability to moderate temperature.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of polarity in water molecules: 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 allows water to form hydrogen bonds, which are crucial for its unique properties.
Explore the role of water's specific heat: Water's high specific heat capacity is due to its polar nature, allowing it to absorb and retain heat effectively. This property helps moderate Earth's climate by absorbing heat during warm periods and releasing it during cooler periods.
Consider the impact of nonpolar water molecules: If water were nonpolar, it would not form hydrogen bonds effectively, leading to a lower specific heat capacity. This means water would absorb and release heat more rapidly, reducing its ability to moderate temperature changes.
Analyze the effects on global warming: With a lower specific heat, nonpolar water would contribute to more extreme temperature fluctuations, exacerbating the effects of global warming. The loss of water's ability to moderate temperature would lead to more drastic climate changes.
Evaluate the overall climatic impact: The absence of water's polar nature would significantly impair its role in climate regulation, leading to more severe consequences of global warming, as water would no longer effectively buffer temperature changes.