Water Molecule

+The **Water Molecule** (H₂O) is a fundamental [compound](/wiki/compound), absolutely vital for all known [life](/wiki/life). Composed of two [Hydrogen](/wiki/hydrogen) [atoms](/wiki/atom) and one [Oxygen](/wiki/oxygen) atom, its unique bent shape and uneven sharing of [electrons](/wiki/electron) create a [polar](/wiki/polarity) structure. This [polarity](/wiki/polarity) is crucial, enabling water to act as an excellent [solvent](/wiki/solvent), often referred to as the "universal solvent," dissolving many substances due to its ability to form [hydrogen bonds](/wiki/hydrogen-bond).

+Beyond its solvent capabilities, water exhibits several other critical properties. It has a high [Specific Heat](/wiki/specific-heat), meaning it can absorb and release large amounts of [heat](/wiki/heat) with only slight changes in its own temperature, which helps regulate global [climate](/wiki/climate) and internal body temperatures. [Cohesion](/wiki/cohesion) (water molecules sticking to each other) and [adhesion](/wiki/adhesion) (water molecules sticking to other surfaces) are responsible for phenomena like [surface tension](/wiki/surface-tension) and [capillary action](/wiki/capillary-action), essential for [plant](/wiki/plant) life. Uniquely, solid water (ice) is less [dense](/wiki/density) than liquid water, causing ice to float, which is critical for aquatic ecosystems.

+Water exists naturally on Earth in three [States of Matter](/wiki/states-of-matter): solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (steam or water vapor), constantly cycling through the [Water Cycle](/wiki/water-cycle).

+- [Hydrogen Bond](/wiki/hydrogen-bond)

+- [Solvent](/wiki/solvent)

+The **Water Molecule** (H₂O) is a fundamental chemical compound, absolutely vital for all known life. Composed of two [Hydrogen](/wiki/hydrogen) atoms and one [Oxygen](/wiki/oxygen) atom, its unique polar structure enables it to act as the universal solvent.

+## See also

+- [Chemistry](/wiki/chemistry)

+- [Molecule](/wiki/molecule)

+- [Atom](/wiki/atom)