Question

question 4 (1 point)
life can exist under frozen surfaces in polar seas because...
o a
water has a high specific heat
o b
water is less dense as a solid
o c
water has a high surface tension
o d
water is a terrific solvent
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Explanation:

Water being less dense as a solid (ice) than as a liquid (water) is crucial. When water freezes, it expands. In polar seas, the ice floats on the liquid water below. This floating ice acts as an insulator. It prevents the entire body of water from freezing solid. If water were denser as a solid, the ice would sink, and the water column would freeze from the bottom up, making it difficult for life to exist. The other options: while water is a good solvent (a property important for life's chemistry), it doesn't directly explain life under frozen surfaces. High surface tension (related to phenomena like capillary action) and being a good solvent are not the key reasons for life under frozen polar sea surfaces.

Answer:

b. water is less dense as a solid