GED Science TestEarth and Space ScienceEasy
A town located near a large body of water experiences cooler temperatures in summer and warmer temperatures in winter compared to an inland town at the same latitude. What property of water is primarily responsible for moderating the coastal town's climate?
- AAbility to dissolve many substances
- BHigh surface tension
- CHigh specific heat capacity
- DLow viscosity
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. High specific heat capacity
Water has a high specific heat capacity, meaning it can absorb and release large amounts of heat energy with only small changes in its own temperature. This moderates coastal climates by keeping them cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Water's solvent properties are important for chemical processes but not for moderating air temperature.
- B. High surface tension affects water's behavior at its surface but does not directly moderate climate.
- D. Low viscosity refers to water's resistance to flow and is not relevant to climate moderation.
High Specific Heat Capacity of Water
Water's ability to absorb and store a large amount of heat energy without a significant change in its own temperature, making it an effective temperature buffer.
- Requires a lot of energy to raise its temperature.
- Releases a lot of energy when its temperature drops.
- Moderates temperatures of coastal regions.
Memory trick: Water's Unique Gifts Shape Our World