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Multiple Choice
Individual water molecules bind to each other through: a) Covalent bonds. b) Ionic bonds. c) Hydrogen bonds. d) Hydrophobic bonds.
A
Covalent bonds.
B
Ionic bonds.
C
Hydrogen bonds.
D
Hydrophobic bonds.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the nature of water molecules: Water (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. The oxygen atom is more electronegative, meaning it attracts electrons more strongly than hydrogen atoms.
Recognize the polarity of water molecules: Due to the difference in electronegativity between oxygen and hydrogen, water molecules have a partial negative charge near the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge near the hydrogen atoms.
Identify the type of bond between water molecules: The partial positive charge of the hydrogen atoms in one water molecule can attract the partial negative charge of the oxygen atom in another water molecule, forming a hydrogen bond.
Differentiate hydrogen bonds from other types of bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weaker than covalent bonds, which involve sharing of electrons, and ionic bonds, which involve transfer of electrons. Hydrophobic interactions are not bonds but rather a tendency of nonpolar substances to aggregate in aqueous solutions.
Conclude that individual water molecules bind to each other through hydrogen bonds, which are crucial for many of water's unique properties, such as high surface tension and boiling point.