Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the strongest intermolecular force?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces
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Which statement explains why hydrogen bonds are able to form between water molecules?
A
Water molecules are nonpolar, allowing for London dispersion forces.
B
The oxygen atom in water has a partial negative charge, while the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges.
C
Hydrogen bonds form because water molecules are composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
D
Water molecules have a bent shape, allowing for dipole-dipole interactions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that hydrogen bonds are a type of dipole-dipole interaction that occurs between molecules where hydrogen is covalently bonded to a highly electronegative atom, such as oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine.
Recognize that in a water molecule (H₂O), the oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, which causes the electrons to be more attracted to the oxygen atom.
This difference in electronegativity results in a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms, creating a polar molecule.
The partial charges on the water molecules allow them to attract each other, with the hydrogen atom of one water molecule being attracted to the oxygen atom of another water molecule, forming a hydrogen bond.
The bent shape of the water molecule enhances its polarity, facilitating the formation of hydrogen bonds between the molecules, which is crucial for many of water's unique properties.
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