Final answer:
The attribute of water that allows hydrogen bonding is its polar nature, leading to the formation of hydrogen bonds. These bonds give water its unique properties, like higher heat capacity, superior solvent characteristics, and cohesive and adhesive properties. They maintain temperature stability and protect aquatic life by forming a less dense ice layer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic of water that allows for intermolecular hydrogen bonding is Water's polar nature. Water's polarity establishes a positive charge on hydrogen and a negative charge on oxygen. The resulting electrical gradient facilitates the formation of hydrogen bonds, which are crucial for vital processes, including the function of water as an excellent solvent and its cohesive and adhesive properties.
Water's polar nature results in hydrogen bond formation which triggers many of the water's unique characteristics. These hydrogen bonds result in higher heat capacity and a high heat of vaporization, providing greater temperature stability. They also enable water to dissolve polar molecules and exhibit both cohesive and adhesive properties.
Furthermore, hydrogen bonding contributes to the less dense structure of ice than liquid water, protecting aquatic life during the cold temperatures as it forms an insulating layer on the surface of water bodies. In a nutshell, the characteristics of water are closely tied to the supporting life and maintaining homeostasis in organisms.
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