Why do water molecules exhibit a strong adhesive force?

Water molecules exhibit a strong adhesive force primarily because they are capable of forming hydrogen bonds. The unique structure of water, with its polar covalent bonds, allows it to create these bonds with other polar substances. When water comes into contact with materials that are also polar or ionic, such as glass or plant tissues, it can form these hydrogen bonds. This interaction not only attracts the water molecules to these surfaces but also enhances the overall adhesive properties of water.

In scenarios such as capillary action, the adhesive force between water and the walls of a narrow tube can lead to the upward movement of water against gravity, demonstrating the significance of this property in biological systems. This is crucial for processes like water transport in plants and the movement of nutrients in biological tissues. Thus, the ability to form hydrogen bonds fundamentally explains why water's adhesive properties are so strong and why they play a vital role in various biological and ecological processes.