Phase Transitions of the First and Second Order in Water: A Recent Approach

Abstract

Some unique properties of water are discussed, as well as their impact on technological processes and life on Earth. The article briefly covers the theory of first-order phase transitions (PT1) and second-order phase transitions (PT2). A piecewise approximation method is proposed for finding singular points of the function of isobaric heat capacity versus temperature. Neighborhoods of intersection of adjacent segments of spline functions are interpreted as regions of second-order phase transitions (PT2). In the temperature 0 - \(100^{\circ}\)C , five such areas were found; 4.1-4.2; 11.9-12.1; 31-34; 56.1–57.1 and 79.5–80.\(5^{\circ}\)C In the study by various scientists of the physical-chemical properties of water by methods of experimental measurements of these properties, areas of anomalous properties of water were found: \(4^{\circ}\)C, \(15^{\circ}\)C, 30-\(35^{\circ}\)C, 40-\(45^{\circ}\)C, 55-\(57^{\circ}\)C, and \(60^{\circ}\)C An interpretation of some anomalous points is proposed in terms of optimizing the conditions for the survival of biological species on Planet Earth.  An abnormally high density of water at a temperature of \(4^{\circ}\)C cause on to the survival of aquatic organisms and plants in the bottom layer of water bodies in northern latitudes in winter. Abnormally low heat capacity of water in the range of 30-\(35^{\circ}\)C contributes to the energy saving of warm-blooded animals and birds.