Water has a high specific heat because of the hydrogen bonding between its molecules. When heat energy is absorbed, much of it goes into breaking these hydrogen bonds rather than immediately increasing the kinetic energy (temperature) of the molecules. This means water can absorb or release a lot of heat without undergoing a large temperature change. The strong hydrogen bonds cause water molecules to resist increases in motion, so it requires more energy to raise the temperature of water compared to many other substances. This unique molecular structure and bonding make water's specific heat capacity significantly higher than most other liquids. This high specific heat capacity helps regulate temperature in environments where water is present, benefiting life by stabilizing climates and internal temperatures of organisms.