Water Properties Information by Topic
Science Center Objects
Looking at water, you might think that it's the most simple thing around. Pure water is practically colorless, odorless, and tasteless. But it's not at all simple and plain and it is vital for all life on Earth. Where there is water there is life, and where water is scarce, life has to struggle or just "throw in the towel." Continue on to learn about dozens of water properties.
Learn about Water Properties
Water is not ... just water
Looking at water, you might think that it's the most simple thing around. Pure water is practically colorless, odorless, and tasteless. But it's not at all simple and plain and it is vital for all life on Earth. Learn about the properties of the most fundamental substance on Earth. (Credit: Dreamstime. Creative Commons)
Water is everywhere, from huge oceans to invisible water molecules making up water vapor in the air. Of course you can see and feel the physical properties of water, but there are also many chemical, electrical, and atomic-scale properties of water that affect all life and substances on Earth. Use this list to investigate the properties of water.
Physical Water Properties
- Facts about water
- Adhesion/cohesion
- Capillary action
- Color
- Compressibility
- Density and weight
- Heat capacity
- Meniscus
- Rainbows (light)
- Surface tension
- Suspended sediment
- Temperature
- Turbidity
- Vapor pressure
- Water, the universal solvent
Chemical Water Properties
Related Topics
- How much does a cloud weigh?
- Are raindrops shaped like tear drops?
- Raindrop sizes
- The water in you
- How does water behave in outer space?
Water Properties Resources
-
Date published: June 8, 2018Status: CompletedFacts About Water
Yes, of course the most obvious fact about water is that it is wet, at least in the liquid state. But, there are many more facts about water that make it a most fascinating substance, one that all life on and in the Earth depends on.
Contacts: Ask USGSAttribution: Water Resources
-
Date published: October 22, 2019Status: CompletedpH and Water
pH is a measure of how acidic/basic water is. The range goes from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. pHs of less than 7 indicate acidity, whereas a pH of greater than 7 indicates a base. The pH of water is a very important measurement concerning water quality.
Contacts: Ask USGS -
Date published: June 6, 2018Status: CompletedConductivity (Electrical Conductance) and Water
Water and electricity don't mix, right? Well actually, pure water is an excellent insulator and does not conduct electricity. The thing is, you won't find any pure water in nature, so don't mix electricity and water. Our Water Science School page will give you all the details.
Contacts: Ask USGS -
Date published: June 5, 2018Status: CompletedAdhesion and Cohesion of Water
Adhesion and cohesion are important water properties that affects how water works everywhere, from plant leaves to your own body. Just remember... Cohesion: Water is attracted to water, and Adhesion: Water is attracted to other substances.
Contacts: Ask USGSAttribution: Water Resources