Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
What gives water many properties that are important to living things?
A
Covalent bonding
B
Hydrogen bonding
C
Ionic bonding
D
Metallic bonding
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonds are weak interactions that occur between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom (like oxygen or nitrogen) and another electronegative atom. These bonds are crucial in determining the properties of water.
Explore the structure of a water molecule: Water (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. The oxygen atom is more electronegative, creating a partial negative charge near the oxygen and a partial positive charge near the hydrogens.
Recognize the significance of hydrogen bonding in water: The partial charges allow water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other, leading to unique properties such as high surface tension, cohesion, adhesion, and a high specific heat capacity.
Compare hydrogen bonding with other types of bonding: Covalent bonds involve sharing electrons between atoms, ionic bonds involve transfer of electrons, and metallic bonds involve a 'sea of electrons'. None of these bonds contribute to the unique properties of water like hydrogen bonds do.
Identify the biological importance of water's properties: Hydrogen bonding in water is essential for processes like temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and cellular structure maintenance, making it vital for life.