Why is water such an effective material to use in an automobile radiator?

Question

Why is water such an effective material to use in an automobile radiator?

Answer 1

It is and it isn't.  Water is inexpensive so that is a plus for using water in a radiator.

I imagine that water quickly absorbs the heat from the engine and is able to quickly dispel the heat out through the radiator quicker than other liquids.

Water isn't perfect though because it will cause the engine to rust inside.  It will freeze in the winter and boil over in the summer.  That is why you need antifreeze.  It has rust inhibators, it raises the freezing tempature of the water, and raises the boiling point.

Answer 2

i think you`re mistaken.............maybe,it`s an anti-freeze liquid and not water........putting water in a radiator and taking in consideration during winter time and below 0º........water will freeze and turn into ice...................

Answer 3

It's not, or should not be just normal tap water. It contains too much salts, minerals and other stuff - look inside your kettle to see what happens ....

In emergency, normal water's fine.

For long-term use, it's better to use distilled water mixed with antifreeze.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distilled_w...

Answer 4

Water mixed with antifreeze is the cooling agent for the motor assembly.

Answer 5

Water actually dissipates heat much better than anti-freeze/coolant, however, water has a MUCH lower boiling point, causes rust and corrosion and is never used in modern cooling systems. Those days are long gone...