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Multiple Choice
Water has __________ than other liquids such as ethanol, reflecting its capacity to absorb large amounts of heat.
A
lower specific heat
B
a lower heat of vaporization
C
a lower capacity for forming hydrogen bonds
D
a higher boiling point
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of specific heat: Specific heat is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat compared to many other substances, which means it can absorb a lot of heat without a significant change in temperature.
Consider the heat of vaporization: This is the amount of energy required to convert a liquid into a gas at its boiling point. Water has a high heat of vaporization, meaning it requires a lot of energy to change from liquid to gas.
Examine hydrogen bonding: Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with each other, which are strong intermolecular forces that contribute to water's unique properties, including its high specific heat and heat of vaporization.
Analyze the boiling point: The boiling point of a substance is the temperature at which it changes from a liquid to a gas. Water's high boiling point is due to its strong hydrogen bonds, which require more energy to break.
Conclude with the correct answer: Given the options, the correct answer is that water has a higher boiling point than other liquids like ethanol, reflecting its capacity to absorb large amounts of heat due to its high specific heat and strong hydrogen bonding.