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Dielectric Constant of Water:
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The dielectric constant (ε_r) of water is a measure of its ability to reduce the force between two electric charges. Water has a high dielectric constant of approximately 80 at 20°C, making it an excellent solvent for ionic compounds.
The calculator provides the standard dielectric constant value for water:
This is a constant value that represents water's dielectric property at standard room temperature.
Details: The high dielectric constant of water is crucial for many biological and chemical processes. It enables water to dissolve salts and other polar compounds, facilitates electrical signaling in biological systems, and influences various electrochemical phenomena.
Tips: The dielectric constant of water is primarily temperature-dependent. While the calculator shows the standard value at 20°C, you may optionally enter a temperature value for reference (though the calculation uses the constant 80 value).
Q1: Why is water's dielectric constant so high?
A: Water's high dielectric constant results from its polar molecular structure and hydrogen bonding, which allows it to effectively screen electrostatic interactions.
Q2: How does temperature affect water's dielectric constant?
A: The dielectric constant decreases with increasing temperature as thermal motion disrupts the alignment of water molecules in electric fields.
Q3: What is the dielectric constant of pure water?
A: Pure water has a dielectric constant of approximately 80 at 20°C, which is among the highest of common liquids.
Q4: Why is this value important in chemistry and biology?
A: It explains water's exceptional ability to dissolve ionic compounds, stabilize charges in solutions, and facilitate various electrochemical processes essential for life.
Q5: How does the dielectric constant affect capacitance?
A: Materials with higher dielectric constants placed between capacitor plates increase the capacitance by reducing the effective electric field between the plates.