Properties
It's a universal solvent
Water is a polar molecule; this allows it to dissolve nearly any substance with an unequal distribution of charge. It also dissolves more substances than any other liquid.
The only substances which it cannot dissolve are truly non-polar substances such as oil and hydrocarbons. It is also the best substance that is universally used for transporting dissolved substances.
It exists naturally as a solid, liquid and gas
Water helps to moderate the climate and helps living organisms regulate their body temperature.
Ice is less dense than water
It also forms a crystal lattice when it freezes, this makes ice less dense than water. Ice has an open lattice structure that collapses when it melts.
It has a high surface tension
This allows water to form drops and waves. Water can ‘adhere’ to surfaces even though gravity is pulling on them. It also allows different insects to literally walk on water!