Question

why is it essential to life that water has a high heat capacity? water’s high heat capacity allows it to dissolve many other substances, making it a universal solvent. water’s high heat capacity speeds up chemical reactions that require the addition of heat in order for the reaction to take place. water’s high heat capacity allows the molecules to move very quickly, producing the heat that is required to keep cold - blooded animals warm. water’s high heat capacity allows it to absorb a large amount of heat before increasing in temperature, allowing humans to maintain a steady body temperature.

Explanation:

High - heat - capacity means water can take in much heat without a big temp rise. This property helps in thermoregulation in living organisms like humans. The other options are incorrect as high heat capacity is not related to water being a universal solvent, speeding up chemical reactions, or warming cold - blooded animals in the ways described.

Answer:

Water’s high heat capacity allows it to absorb a large amount of heat before increasing in temperature, allowing humans to maintain a steady body temperature.