If water had a low heat capacity, which of the following could happen? Select all that apply except one. A) Temperature changes would require less energy input. B) Temperature changes, especially in coastal areas, would be more sudden. C) The water in organisms would heat up quickly and potentially cause cells to lyse. D) Water in lakes and rivers would be much warmer in the summer and much colder in the winter.
Biology · Middle School · Mon Jan 18 2021
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If water had a low heat capacity, the following scenarios could happen:
A) Temperature changes would require less energy input.
C) The water in organisms would heat up quickly and potentially cause cells to lyse.
D) Water in lakes and rivers would be much warmer in the summer and much colder in the winter.
The option that doesn't apply is:
B) Temperature changes, especially in coastal areas, would be more sudden.
Water's high heat capacity contributes to its ability to absorb and retain heat, moderating temperature changes in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. If water had a low heat capacity, coastal areas wouldn't necessarily experience more sudden temperature changes; rather, they might experience less buffering against rapid temperature fluctuations.